18-Wheeler & Trucking Accident Attorneys in Calhoun County, Florida

When 80,000 Pounds Changes Everything

The impact was catastrophic. One moment you’re driving through Calhoun County on your way to work, running errands, or heading home to your family. The next, an 80,000-pound commercial truck has slammed into your vehicle, and nothing will ever be the same.

Every 16 minutes, someone in America is injured in a commercial truck crash. In Calhoun County, Florida, our position along major freight corridors makes the risk even more pronounced. The rural highways connecting to I-10, the agricultural trucking routes serving our timber and farming industries, and the long-haul corridors passing through our communities all create dangerous conditions where truck accidents can—and do—happen with devastating consequences.

If you or someone you love has been hurt in an 18-wheeler accident in Calhoun County, you need more than a lawyer. You need a fighter. You need someone who understands federal trucking regulations, who knows how to preserve critical evidence before it disappears, and who has the experience to stand up to trucking companies and their insurance carriers. At Attorney911, we’ve been doing exactly that for over 25 years.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents in Calhoun County Are Different

The Physics of Catastrophe

Your car weighs roughly 4,000 pounds. A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. That’s not a fair fight—it’s 20 times your vehicle’s weight bearing down on you with devastating force.

The physics get worse when you consider stopping distance. At 65 miles per hour, your car needs approximately 300 feet to stop. An 18-wheeler needs 525 feet—nearly two football fields. When a truck driver is distracted, fatigued, or speeding, they simply cannot stop in time to avoid a collision.

In Calhoun County, these physics play out on rural highways with limited shoulder space, on agricultural roads where farm equipment and commercial trucks share narrow lanes, and on the connecting routes to I-10 where long-haul drivers push through fatigue to make delivery deadlines.

Federal Regulations That Protect You

Commercial trucking isn’t just regulated by Florida state law—it’s governed by comprehensive federal regulations through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations, codified in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR), create strict safety standards that trucking companies and drivers must follow.

When they don’t—and when that failure causes your accident—you have powerful legal grounds for compensation.

The Six Critical FMCSA Regulation Parts:

These regulations aren’t just technicalities—they’re lifelines. When a trucking company violates 49 CFR § 395.3 by allowing a driver to operate beyond the 11-hour driving limit, and that fatigued driver causes your accident, that violation is powerful evidence of negligence. When a company fails to maintain brakes per 49 CFR § 396.3 and brake failure causes a crash, that maintenance failure can support punitive damages.

At Attorney911, we know these regulations inside and out. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has spent over 25 years using FMCSA violations to build winning cases against trucking companies. And our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, brings insider knowledge from his years working in insurance defense—he knows exactly how trucking insurers try to minimize claims, and he uses that knowledge to fight for maximum compensation for our clients.

The 48-Hour Evidence Crisis: Why Immediate Action Matters

Here’s what most Calhoun County trucking accident victims don’t know: the trucking company is already building their defense. Before the ambulance leaves the scene, before you even get to the hospital, the trucking company has dispatched their rapid-response team to protect their interests—not yours.

Critical Evidence That Disappears Fast:

This is why we send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained. A spoliation letter is a formal legal notice that puts the trucking company on notice that they must preserve all evidence related to your accident. Once they receive this letter, destroying evidence becomes spoliation—a serious legal violation that can result in:

• Adverse inference instructions: The jury is told to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable to the trucking company
• Monetary sanctions: Financial penalties imposed by the court
• Default judgment: In extreme cases, the court may rule against the defendant automatically
• Punitive damages: Additional damages awarded for intentional destruction of evidence

If you’ve been hurt in a Calhoun County trucking accident, every hour you wait makes your case harder to prove. The trucking company isn’t waiting. Neither should you.

Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Calhoun County

Jackknife Accidents

A jackknife occurs when the trailer and cab skid in opposite directions, with the trailer folding at an angle like a pocket knife. The trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often sweeping across multiple lanes of traffic.

In Calhoun County, jackknife accidents frequently occur on the rural highways connecting to I-10, where sudden braking on wet roads or improper speed on curves can trigger these catastrophic events. The long, straight stretches of highway can give drivers a false sense of security, leading to excessive speed that becomes deadly when conditions change.

Jackknife accidents account for approximately 10% of all trucking-related deaths. They often result in multi-vehicle pileups when the trailer blocks multiple lanes—something that’s especially dangerous on Calhoun County’s two-lane rural roads with limited shoulder space.

Common Causes:

• Sudden or improper braking, especially on wet or icy roads
• Speeding, particularly on curves or in adverse conditions
• Empty or lightly loaded trailers (more prone to swing)
• Improperly loaded or unbalanced cargo
• Brake system failures or worn brakes
• Driver inexperience with emergency maneuvers

FMCSA Violations Often Present:

• 49 CFR § 393.48 – Brake system malfunction
• 49 CFR § 393.100 – Improper cargo securement
• 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.

Calhoun County’s mix of rural highways, agricultural roads, and connecting routes to major interstates creates conditions where rollover accidents are particularly dangerous. The soft shoulders on many rural roads, combined with the high center of gravity of loaded trucks, means that even a moment of inattention or overcorrection can lead to a rollover that blocks the entire roadway.

Approximately 50% of rollover crashes result from failure to adjust speed on curves—something that’s critical on the winding rural roads throughout Calhoun County’s timber and agricultural areas. When a rollover occurs, it frequently leads to secondary crashes from debris and fuel spills, and the remote location of many Calhoun County roads can delay emergency response.

Common Causes:

• Speeding on curves, ramps, or turns
• Taking turns too sharply at excessive speed
• Improperly secured or unevenly distributed cargo
• Liquid cargo “slosh” shifting center of gravity
• Overcorrection after tire blowout or lane departure
• Driver fatigue causing delayed reaction
• Road design defects (inadequate banking on curves)

FMCSA Violations Often Present:

• 49 CFR § 393.100-136 – Cargo securement violations
• 49 CFR § 392.6 – Exceeding safe speed
• 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. Approximately 400-500 underride deaths occur annually in the United States. In Calhoun County, where rural highways often have limited lighting and drivers may encounter slow-moving trucks or stopped trailers with inadequate warning, underride collisions pose a particular threat.

Types:

• Rear Underride: Vehicle strikes back of trailer, often at intersections or during sudden stops
• Side Underride: Vehicle impacts side of trailer during lane changes, turns, or at intersections

Common Causes:

• Inadequate or missing underride guards
• Worn or damaged rear impact guards
• Truck sudden stops without adequate warning
• Low visibility conditions (night, fog, rain)
• Truck lane changes into blind spots
• Wide right turns cutting off traffic
• Inadequate rear lighting or reflectors

FMCSA/NHTSA Requirements:

• 49 CFR § 393.86 – Rear impact guards required on trailers manufactured after 1/26/1998
• Guards must prevent underride at 30 mph impact
• NO FEDERAL REQUIREMENT for side underride guards (advocacy ongoing)

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. A fully loaded truck at 65 mph needs approximately 525 feet to stop—nearly two football fields. In Calhoun County, where sudden stops may be required for agricultural equipment crossing rural roads, wildlife encounters, or traffic slowing on connecting routes to I-10, this stopping distance deficit can be deadly.

Rear-end collisions are the second most common type of large truck crash. When they occur on Calhoun County’s two-lane rural highways, they often block the entire roadway, creating secondary collision risks and delaying emergency response.

Common Causes:

• Following too closely (tailgating)
• Driver distraction (cell phone, dispatch communications)
• Driver fatigue and delayed reaction
• Excessive speed for traffic conditions
• Brake failures from poor maintenance
• Failure to anticipate traffic slowdowns
• Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)

FMCSA Violations Often Present:

• 49 CFR § 392.11 – Following too closely
• 49 CFR § 392.3 – Operating while fatigued
• 49 CFR § 392.82 – Mobile phone use
• 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.

In Calhoun County, wide turn accidents are particularly dangerous at rural intersections where farm equipment and commercial trucks share the road, and where the geometry of older roadways wasn’t designed for modern tractor-trailers. The combination of tight turns, soft shoulders, and limited visibility creates conditions where squeeze play accidents can occur with devastating results.

Why Trucks Make Wide Turns:

• 18-wheelers need significant space to complete turns
• Trailer tracks inside the path of the cab
• Drivers must swing wide to avoid curbs, signs, or buildings

Common Causes:

• Failure to properly signal turning intention
• Inadequate mirror checks before and during turn
• Improper turn technique (swinging too early or too wide)
• Driver inexperience with trailer tracking
• Failure to yield right-of-way when completing turn
• Poor intersection design forcing wide turns

FMCSA Violations Often Present:

• 49 CFR § 392.11 – Unsafe lane changes
• 49 CFR § 392.2 – Failure to obey traffic signals
• 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:

1. Front No-Zone: 20 feet directly in front of the cab—driver cannot see low vehicles
2. Rear No-Zone: 30 feet behind the trailer—no rear-view mirror visibility
3. Left Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward—smaller than right side
4. Right Side No-Zone: Extends from cab door backward, much larger than left—MOST DANGEROUS

In Calhoun County, blind spot accidents are particularly hazardous on the two-lane rural highways where limited shoulder space means there’s nowhere to go when a truck drifts into your lane, and on the connecting routes to I-10 where high-speed lane changes by fatigued long-haul drivers can be deadly.

Right-side blind spot accidents are especially dangerous due to the larger blind spot area. Many blind spot accidents occur during lane changes on highways—something that happens constantly on Calhoun County’s rural roads as trucks pass slower vehicles and agricultural equipment.

Common Causes:

• 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
• Failure to use turn signals allowing other drivers to anticipate

FMCSA Requirements:

• 49 CFR § 393.80 – Mirrors must provide clear view to rear on both sides
• Proper mirror adjustment is 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.

18-wheelers have 18 tires, each of which can fail. Steer tire (front) blowouts are especially dangerous—can cause immediate loss of control. “Road gators” (tire debris) cause thousands of accidents annually.

In Calhoun County, tire blowouts are particularly hazardous on the long, straight stretches of rural highway where high speeds combined with heavy loads and Florida’s intense heat create perfect conditions for tire failure. When a blowout occurs on these roads, there’s often limited shoulder space for the truck to safely maneuver, and the debris can create hazards for miles.

Common Causes:

• 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
• Inadequate pre-trip tire inspections

FMCSA Requirements:

• 49 CFR § 393.75 – Tire requirements (tread depth, condition)
• 49 CFR § 396.13 – Pre-trip inspection must include tire check
• Minimum tread depth: 4/32″ on steer tires, 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. 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 Calhoun County, brake failure is particularly dangerous on the rural highways with limited shoulder space, on the approaches to intersections with agricultural equipment, and on the connecting routes to I-10 where high-speed traffic meets local roads. The combination of heavy loads, long downhill grades, and deferred maintenance creates deadly conditions.

Common Causes:

• 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
• Deferred maintenance to save costs

FMCSA Requirements:

• 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
• Air brake pushrod travel limits specified

Cargo Spill/Shift Accidents

Cargo spill and shift accidents occur when improperly secured cargo falls from a truck, shifts during transport causing instability, or spills onto the roadway.

Cargo securement violations are among the top 10 most common FMCSA violations. Shifted cargo causes rollover accidents when center of gravity changes. Spilled cargo on highways causes secondary accidents.

In Calhoun County, cargo spills are particularly hazardous given our rural road network. When timber, agricultural products, or manufactured goods spill onto narrow two-lane highways, the debris field can extend for miles, creating hazards for unsuspecting drivers. The remote location of many of these accidents can delay cleanup and emergency response, increasing the risk of secondary collisions.

Types:

• Cargo Shift: Load moves during transit, destabilizing truck
• Cargo Spill: Load falls from truck onto roadway
• Hazmat Spill: Hazardous materials leak or spill, creating additional dangers

Common Causes:

• Inadequate tiedowns (insufficient number or strength)
• Improper loading distribution
• Failure to use blocking, bracing, or friction mats
• Tiedown failure due to wear or damage
• Overloading beyond securement capacity
• Failure to re-inspect cargo during trip
• Loose tarps allowing cargo shift

FMCSA Requirements:

• 49 CFR § 393.100-136 – Complete cargo securement standards
• Working load limits for tiedowns specified
• Specific requirements by cargo type (logs, metal coils, machinery, etc.)

Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions occur when an 18-wheeler crosses into oncoming traffic and strikes vehicles traveling in the opposite direction.

Head-on collisions are among the deadliest accident types. Even at moderate combined speeds, the force is often fatal. Often occur on two-lane highways or from wrong-way entry.

In Calhoun County, head-on collisions are particularly devastating on the rural two-lane highways that serve as primary routes between communities. When a fatigued long-haul driver drifts across the centerline on these narrow roads, or when an impaired driver makes a wrong-way entry, the closing speed of two vehicles traveling in opposite directions creates impact forces that are almost always fatal or catastrophically injurious.

Common Causes:

• Driver fatigue causing lane departure
• Driver falling asleep at the wheel
• Driver distraction (phone, GPS, dispatch)
• Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
• Medical emergency (heart attack, seizure)
• Overcorrection after running off road
• Passing on two-lane roads
• Wrong-way entry onto divided highways

FMCSA Violations Often Present:

• 49 CFR § 395 – Hours of service violations
• 49 CFR § 392.3 – Operating while fatigued
• 49 CFR § 392.4/5 – Drug or alcohol violations
• 49 CFR § 392.82 – Mobile phone use

Who Can Be Held Liable in Your Calhoun County Trucking Accident

Most law firms only sue the driver and trucking company. We investigate EVERY potentially liable party—because more defendants means more insurance coverage means higher compensation for you.

The 10 Potentially Liable Parties

1. 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, and failure to conduct proper inspections.

2. The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier

The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they carry the highest insurance limits. They’re liable under respondeat superior for their employee’s negligence, and directly liable for negligent hiring, training, supervision, maintenance, and scheduling practices that pressure drivers to violate safety regulations.

3. Cargo Owner / Shipper

The company that owns the cargo may be liable for providing improper loading instructions, failing to disclose hazardous materials, requiring overweight loading, or pressuring carriers to expedite beyond safe limits.

4. Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loaders may be liable for improper cargo securement violations of 49 CFR Part 393, unbalanced load distribution, exceeding vehicle weight ratings, or failure to use proper blocking and bracing.

5. Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

Manufacturers may be liable for design defects in brake systems, stability control, or fuel tank placement; manufacturing defects like faulty welds; or failure to warn of known dangers.

6. Parts Manufacturer

Companies that manufacture brakes, tires, steering components, or lighting may be liable when their defective products cause or contribute to accidents.

7. Maintenance Company

Third-party maintenance providers may be liable for negligent repairs, failure to identify critical safety issues, improper brake adjustments, or returning vehicles to service with known defects.

8. Freight Broker

Brokers who arrange transportation may be liable for negligent carrier selection—choosing carriers with poor safety records, inadequate insurance, or known violations.

9. Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may be liable for negligent entrustment, failure to maintain equipment, or knowledge of driver unfitness.

10. Government Entity

Federal, state, or local government may be liable for dangerous road design, failure to maintain roads, inadequate signage, or improper work zone setup—though sovereign immunity limits recovery in many cases.

Florida Law: Your Rights After a Calhoun County Trucking Accident

Statute of Limitations

In Florida, you have 4 years from the date of your trucking accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the deadline is 2 years from the date of death.

But waiting is dangerous. Evidence disappears. Witnesses forget. And the trucking company is building their defense right now. We recommend contacting an attorney within days, not months.

Comparative Negligence in Florida

Florida follows modified comparative negligence with a 51% bar rule. This means:

• You can recover damages as long as you are 50% or less at fault for the accident
• Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you are 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing

This makes thorough investigation and evidence preservation critical. The trucking company will try to shift blame to you. We fight to prove what really happened.

Damage Caps in Florida

Florida does not cap compensatory damages (economic and non-economic) in personal injury cases. However, punitive damages are capped at the greater of:

• Three times the amount of compensatory damages, OR
• $500,000

This means your full medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages are recoverable without artificial limits.

Catastrophic Injuries: The Life-Changing Impact of Calhoun County Trucking Accidents

The injuries from 18-wheeler accidents aren’t just severe—they’re often permanent, life-altering, and financially devastating. At Attorney911, we’ve helped victims of catastrophic trucking accidents recover the compensation they need to rebuild their lives.

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 Levels:

Common Symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, nausea, memory loss, confusion, difficulty concentrating, mood changes, depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, sensory problems, speech difficulties, personality changes.

Lifetime Care Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+ depending on severity.

At Attorney911, we’ve recovered $1.5 million to $9.8 million for traumatic brain injury victims. These cases require extensive medical documentation, expert testimony, and a thorough understanding of how TBI affects every aspect of life.

Spinal Cord Injury

Damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in paralysis.

Types of Paralysis:

Lifetime Care Costs:

• Paraplegia: $1.1 million to $2.5 million+
• Quadriplegia: $3.5 million to $5 million+

These figures represent direct medical costs only—not lost wages, pain and suffering, or loss of quality of life.

We’ve secured $4.7 million to $25.8 million for spinal cord injury victims. These cases require life care planning, vocational analysis, and a comprehensive understanding of the lifetime needs of paralyzed individuals.

Amputation

Amputation—whether traumatic (severed at the scene) or surgical (required due to damage)—permanently alters every aspect of life.

Ongoing Medical Needs:

• Initial surgery and hospitalization
• Prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000+ per prosthetic)
• Replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Occupational therapy for daily living skills
• Psychological counseling

Impact on Life:

• Permanent disability
• Career limitations or total disability
• Phantom limb pain
• Body image and psychological trauma
• Need for home modifications
• Dependency on others for daily activities

We’ve recovered $1.9 million to $8.6 million for amputation victims. These cases require prosthetic experts, vocational rehabilitation specialists, and a thorough understanding of the lifetime costs of limb loss.

Severe Burns

Burns in trucking accidents typically result from fuel tank ruptures, hazmat cargo spills, or electrical fires. The severity depends on the depth and extent of tissue damage.

Burn Classification:

Long-Term Consequences:

• Permanent scarring and disfigurement
• Multiple reconstructive surgeries
• Skin graft procedures
• Chronic pain
• Infection risks
• Psychological trauma

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims. In Florida, eligible claimants typically include the surviving spouse, children, and parents.

Damages Available:

• Lost future income and benefits
• Loss of consortium (companionship, care, guidance)
• Mental anguish and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses before death
• Punitive damages (if gross negligence)

We’ve recovered $1.9 million to $9.5 million for wrongful death cases. These cases require economic experts to calculate lifetime lost earnings, and they demand attorneys who understand the profound emotional impact on surviving families.

The Attorney911 Advantage: Why Calhoun County Trucking Accident Victims Choose Us

25+ Years of Fighting for Trucking Accident Victims

Ralph Manginello has been standing up to trucking companies since 1998. That’s over 25 years of learning their tactics, understanding their weaknesses, and building the expertise to maximize recoveries for injured victims.

Our managing partner isn’t just experienced—he’s battle-tested. He’s admitted to federal court in the Southern District of Texas, giving him the ability to handle complex interstate trucking cases that cross state lines. He’s litigated against Fortune 500 corporations, including BP in the Texas City refinery explosion litigation that resulted in over $2.1 billion in total industry settlements.

This isn’t theoretical experience. It’s the kind of hands-on, in-the-trenches work that teaches you how trucking companies think, how their insurers operate, and how to build cases that force them to pay what victims deserve.

The Insurance Defense Advantage: Lupe Peña’s Insider Knowledge

Here’s something most law firms can’t offer: we have a former insurance defense attorney on our team.

Lupe Peña spent years working at a national insurance defense firm. He sat in the rooms where adjusters are trained. He learned the formulas they use to minimize claims. He watched them develop strategies to deny legitimate claims and pay victims less than they deserve.

Now he uses that insider knowledge against them.

When Lupe evaluates your case, he knows exactly how the trucking company’s insurer will try to attack it. He knows what evidence they’ll look for, what arguments they’ll make, and what settlement range they’re actually authorized to pay. This knowledge doesn’t just help us win cases—it helps us win them faster and for more money.

Lupe is also fluent in Spanish, providing direct representation to Calhoun County’s Hispanic community without the need for interpreters. Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911.

Multi-Million Dollar Results That Speak for Themselves

We don’t just talk about results—we deliver them. Our documented case results include:

These aren’t outliers—they’re the result of systematic, aggressive representation that leaves no stone unturned. We investigate every liable party, preserve every piece of evidence, and build every case as if it’s going to trial. That preparation creates leverage that drives better settlements.

The Client Experience: What Our Reviews Say

Our 4.9-star Google rating with 251+ reviews isn’t an accident. It’s the result of treating clients like family, not case numbers.

What our clients say:

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

“One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.” — Donald Wilcox

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

“Mr. Manginello and his firm are first class. Will fight tooth and nail for you.” — Ernest Cano

“I lost everything… 1 year later I have gained so much in return plus a brand new truck.” — Kiimarii Yup

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

This is what we do. We take cases other firms reject. We resolve cases faster than competitors. And we fight for every dollar our clients deserve.

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

Immediate Steps (If You’re Able)

1. Call 911 and report the accident. Emergency response in Calhoun County may involve local sheriff’s departments, Florida Highway Patrol, and volunteer fire departments depending on location.

2. Seek medical attention immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, adrenaline masks pain. Calhoun County’s rural location means trauma care may require transport to regional hospitals—document all treatment.

3. Document the scene. Photograph all vehicles, damage, road conditions, skid marks, and surroundings. In Calhoun County’s rural areas, this documentation is critical as scenes may be cleared before law enforcement arrives.

4. Get trucking company information. Record the company name, DOT number, driver name and CDL number, and insurance information.

5. Collect witness information. Independent witnesses are invaluable—get names, phone numbers, and email addresses.

6. Do NOT give recorded statements to insurance companies. Anything you say will be used to minimize your claim.

7. Call an 18-wheeler accident attorney immediately. Evidence disappears fast. We send spoliation letters within 24 hours.

Why You Need a Calhoun County Trucking Accident Attorney

Trucking accidents aren’t like car accidents. The stakes are higher, the regulations are more complex, and the trucking companies have teams of lawyers working to protect them.

You need an attorney who:

• Understands federal trucking regulations and how to use FMCSA violations to prove negligence
• Knows how to preserve critical evidence before it’s destroyed
• Has experience with catastrophic injuries and the lifetime costs they create
• Can identify all liable parties to maximize insurance coverage
• Is prepared to go to trial if the trucking company won’t offer fair settlement

At Attorney911, we check every box. Ralph Manginello’s 25+ years of experience includes federal court admission, Fortune 500 litigation experience, and multi-million dollar verdicts. Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background gives us insider knowledge of how trucking insurers operate. And our track record of results speaks for itself.

Frequently Asked Questions About Calhoun County 18-Wheeler Accidents

How long do I have to file a trucking accident lawsuit in Florida?

In Florida, you have 4 years from the date of your trucking accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the deadline is 2 years from the date of death.

But 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. We recommend contacting an attorney within days, not months.

What if the trucking company’s insurance adjuster calls me?

Do not give a recorded statement. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. They’re trained to get you to say things that minimize your claim. Let your attorney handle all communications with the trucking company and their insurer.

Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how these adjusters operate. We know their tactics, and we know how to counter them.

How much is my Calhoun County trucking accident case worth?

Case values depend on many factors: severity of injuries, medical expenses (past and future), lost income and earning capacity, pain and suffering, degree of defendant’s negligence, and available insurance coverage.

Trucking companies carry higher insurance than regular drivers—minimum $750,000 for non-hazardous freight, $1 million for oil and equipment, and $5 million for hazardous materials. Many carriers carry $1-5 million or more. This higher coverage means catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated.

We’ve recovered settlements ranging from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars. The key is having an attorney who knows how to access all available insurance and prove the full extent of your damages.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Florida follows modified comparative negligence with a 51% bar rule. This means:

• You can recover damages as long as you are 50% or less at fault
• Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you are 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing

This makes thorough investigation critical. The trucking company will try to shift blame to you. We fight to prove what really happened using objective evidence like black box data, ELD records, and accident reconstruction.

What is a spoliation letter and why does it matter?

A spoliation letter is a formal legal notice demanding that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to your accident. This includes ECM/black box data, ELD records, maintenance records, driver files, and more.

Once the trucking company receives this letter, destroying evidence becomes spoliation—a serious legal violation. Courts can instruct juries to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable, impose monetary sanctions, or even enter default judgment.

We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained. Evidence disappears fast in trucking cases. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage gets deleted. We don’t wait.

How do I pay for an attorney if I can’t work?

We work on contingency fee. You pay absolutely nothing unless we win your case. We advance all investigation costs, expert fees, and litigation expenses. When we win, our fee comes from the recovery—not your pocket.

This means you get the same quality representation as wealthy clients, with no financial risk. The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect them. You deserve the same level of representation.

What makes Attorney911 different from other personal injury firms?

Three things set us apart:

First, 25+ years of experience. Ralph Manginello has been fighting trucking companies since 1998. He’s admitted to federal court, has litigated against Fortune 500 corporations, and has recovered multi-million dollar settlements for families devastated by trucking accidents.

Second, insider insurance knowledge. Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for insurance companies defending trucking claims. He knows exactly how insurers evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for you.

Third, we treat you like family. Our 4.9-star Google rating with 251+ reviews reflects how we treat clients. As Chad Harris told us: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”

What if the trucking company is from out of state?

Federal trucking regulations apply nationwide. A trucking company from Texas, California, or anywhere else must comply with the same FMCSA regulations when operating in Florida. We can pursue claims against out-of-state carriers in federal court or Florida state court, depending on what serves your best interests.

Ralph Manginello’s dual-state licensure in Texas and New York, combined with his federal court admission, gives us flexibility to handle complex jurisdictional issues that other firms may struggle with.

How long will my case take?

Timelines vary based on complexity:

• Straightforward cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
• Complex cases with multiple parties or catastrophic injuries: 1-3 years
• Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery. Rushing to settlement before you understand the full extent of your injuries is a mistake that can cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars. We take the time to build your case properly.

What evidence do you pursue in trucking cases?

We pursue comprehensive evidence including:

Electronic Data:

• ECM/Black box data (speed, braking, engine performance)
• ELD records (hours of service compliance)
• GPS and telematics data
• Dashcam and forward-facing camera footage
• Dispatch communications and messaging

Driver Records:

• Complete Driver Qualification File
• Employment application and background check
• Driving record and previous employers
• Medical certification and drug test results
• Training documentation and performance reviews

Vehicle Records:

• Maintenance and repair records
• Inspection reports (pre-trip, post-trip, annual)
• Out-of-service orders and repairs
• Tire and brake replacement history

Company Records:

• Hours of service records for 6 months prior
• Dispatch logs and trip records
• Safety policies and training curricula
• Previous accident and violation history

This comprehensive approach is why we find evidence that other firms miss—and why we recover more for our clients.

Calhoun County’s Trucking Landscape: Understanding Local Risks

Calhoun County, Florida sits at a critical junction of freight movement in the Florida Panhandle. Understanding our local trucking environment helps explain why accidents happen here—and why local knowledge matters in your case.

Major Trucking Corridors

I-10 Corridor: The primary east-west interstate connecting Jacksonville to Pensacola and beyond carries massive commercial truck traffic. Fatigued long-haul drivers pushing to make delivery deadlines create dangerous conditions, particularly during overnight hours.

State Road 20: This major east-west route through Calhoun County serves as a critical connector for agricultural and timber freight. The mix of commercial trucks, farm equipment, and passenger vehicles on this two-lane road creates frequent conflict points.

State Road 71: Running north-south through the county, this route connects to I-10 and serves as a major corridor for freight moving between the coast and inland areas. The rural character of much of this highway means limited emergency services and longer response times when accidents occur.

Local Industry and Freight Patterns

Timber and Forestry: Calhoun County’s significant timber industry generates substantial logging truck traffic. These heavy loads, combined with rural road conditions and the pressure to move product efficiently, create accident risks unique to our area.

Agriculture: From row crops to livestock, agricultural trucking permeates Calhoun County’s road network. Seasonal harvest pressures, farm equipment sharing roads with commercial traffic, and the rural location of many agricultural operations all contribute to accident risks.

Manufacturing and Distribution: While less dominant than agriculture and timber, manufacturing and distribution operations in and around Calhoun County generate freight traffic that mixes with local and through traffic on our roadways.

Weather and Environmental Factors

Florida’s climate creates unique trucking hazards in Calhoun County:

Summer Thunderstorms: Sudden, intense rainfall reduces visibility and creates hydroplaning conditions. Commercial trucks require significantly longer stopping distances on wet roads, and the rural nature of many Calhoun County highways means limited drainage infrastructure.

Fog: Particularly in low-lying areas and near water bodies, fog can reduce visibility to near zero. The mix of slow-moving agricultural equipment, commercial trucks, and passenger vehicles in these conditions is deadly.

Hurricane Season: From June through November, hurricane threats can trigger evacuation traffic that overwhelms local roads. The combination of stressed drivers, heavy freight movement, and potentially deteriorating weather conditions creates elevated accident risks.

Your Next Steps: Protecting Your Rights After a Calhoun County Trucking Accident

If you or someone you love has been hurt in an 18-wheeler accident in Calhoun County, here’s what you need to do right now:

Immediate Actions

1. Focus on your health. Follow all medical advice and attend every appointment. Your medical records will be critical evidence.

2. Preserve evidence. Keep all photos, videos, and documents from the accident scene. Don’t repair or dispose of your vehicle without consulting an attorney.

3. Document everything. Keep a journal of your injuries, symptoms, and how they affect your daily life. Save all medical bills and records of missed work.

4. Avoid social media. Insurance companies will search your profiles for anything they can use against you. Don’t post about your accident or injuries.

5. Don’t sign anything. The trucking company’s insurer may offer a quick settlement. Don’t sign any releases or accept any payments without legal advice.

Call Attorney911 Today

The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect their interests. You deserve the same level of representation. At Attorney911, we offer:

• Free consultation to evaluate your case
• No fee unless we win—you pay nothing upfront
• 24/7 availability because accidents don’t wait for business hours
• Immediate evidence preservation including spoliation letters sent within 24-48 hours
• Spanish-language services through Lupe Peña—no interpreters needed

Ralph Manginello has spent over 25 years making trucking companies pay. He’s recovered multi-million dollar settlements for families just like yours. And with a former insurance defense attorney on our team, we know exactly how to counter the tactics trucking insurers use to minimize your claim.

Don’t let the trucking company push you around. Don’t accept less than you deserve. And don’t wait until critical evidence disappears.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’re available 24/7, and your consultation is free.

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

Attorney911 / The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC
25+ years fighting for trucking accident victims
Offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont
Serving Calhoun County and all of Florida