Brownwood Truck Accident Attorneys: The Manginello Law Firm
The impact is unlike anything else on the road. When 80,000 pounds of steel collides with your 4,000-pound passenger car on a Brownwood highway, the physics are stacked against you. In a split second, your life, your career, and your family’s future are thrown into chaos. Whether you were struck by a long-haul 18-wheeler on US-377, a speeding delivery van near a local distribution hub, or an overloaded dump truck on US-67, you aren’t just dealing with a “traffic accident.” You’re facing a legal emergency.
At Attorney911, led by our managing partner Ralph Manginello, we’ve spent more than 25 years fighting for the rights of victims in Brownwood and throughout Brown County. We know that the moment a commercial vehicle causes a crash, the trucking company’s defense machine starts moving. They have rapid-response teams, corporate adjusters, and aggressive lawyers on the clock before your ambulance even reaches the trauma center. You need a team that moves just as fast.
If you’ve been hurt, don’t wait. Black box data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days, and every hour that passes gives the insurance company more time to hide the truth. Call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay us nothing unless we win your case.
Why Experience Matters After a Brownwood Trucking Accident
Trucking litigation is not the same as a standard car insurance claim. These cases involve complex federal regulations, multiple layers of corporate insurance, and defendants with nearly unlimited resources to fight your claim. Ralph Manginello brings federal court admission and over two decades of courtroom experience to every case we take. Since 1998, our firm has recovered over $50 million for Texas families, including multi-million dollar settlements for traumatic brain injuries and life-altering amputations.
Our team provides a unique advantage you won’t find at most personal injury firms. Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working inside a national insurance defense firm. He used to defend the very companies we now sue. He knows their playbook, he knows how they value claims, and he knows exactly which tactics they use to delay and deny your recovery. We use that “insider” knowledge to expose their strategies and maximize your compensation.
We aren’t just “billboard lawyers.” We are a boutique firm that treats our clients like family. As our client Chad Harris said, “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” We limit our caseload so that Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña can provide personal attention to every victim in Brownwood.
If you are ready to hold a negligent trucking company accountable, call 888-ATTY-911 today. Hablamos Español.
The Reality of Commercial Traffic in Brownwood and Brown County
Brownwood sits at a critical crossroads for Central Texas freight. With US-377, US-67, US-84, and Hwy 183 all converging here, our local roads are constantly shared with an intense volume of commercial vehicles. This isn’t just limited to 18-wheelers passing through to DFW or San Angelo; it includes regional delivery fleets, agricultural haulers, and industrial equipment movers.
When these vehicles operate in Brownwood, they are often on two-lane highways or crossing through congested local intersections. The risk of a catastrophic encounter is high. We see a wide variety of commercial vehicle accidents in Brownwood, including:
- Long-Haul 18-Wheelers: Interstate freight moving through the Brown County corridor.
- Corporate Delivery Vans: Amazon, FedEx, and UPS drivers under extreme time pressure to meet quotas.
- Dump Trucks and Concrete Mixers: Heavy vehicles serving local construction and infrastructure projects.
- Agricultural Haulers: Moving livestock, grain, and equipment through our rural routes.
- Oilfield Support Trucks: While Brownwood is east of the main Permian Basin, we serve as a major through-route for water tankers, sand haulers, and equipment moves heading into the patch.
Every one of these vehicles is governed by strict safety rules. When those rules are broken in Brownwood, we make them pay. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-288-9911 for your free case evaluation.
Proving Negligence: FMCSA Regulations and Common Violations
Proving that a truck driver was “careless” isn’t enough to secure a multi-million dollar settlement. To win, we must prove that the driver or the trucking company violated the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). These are the federal laws found in 49 CFR Parts 390-399 that govern every commercial truck on the road.
When we investigate a Brownwood truck wreck, we look for violations in several key areas:
Hours of Service (HOS) Violations (49 CFR Part 395)
Driver fatigue is the leading cause of fatal accidents on West and Central Texas highways. Federal law is strict: a property-carrying driver cannot drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty. They cannot drive past the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty and must take a 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving.
If a driver was pushing through to make a delivery in Brownwood and skipped their rest, they were driving illegally. We use Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data to prove these violations.
Driver Qualifications (49 CFR Part 391)
Trucking companies have a “non-delegable” duty to ensure their drivers are qualified. This means they must check the driver’s background, motor vehicle record, and medical certification. If a company hired a driver with a history of DUIs or professional disqualifications and that driver hits you in Brownwood, the company is liable for negligent hiring.
Maintenance and Inspections (49 CFR Part 396)
Every 18-wheeler is required to undergo systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance. Drivers must perform pre-trip inspections of their brakes, tires, and lights (49 CFR 396.13). If a truck had worn brake pads or bald tires that caused a blowout on a Brownwood bypass, that is evidence of maintenance negligence.
Cargo Securement (49 CFR Part 393)
Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo can cause a trailer to shift, leading to a rollover or jackknife. Whether it’s heavy machinery, oilfield pipe, or retail goods, the cargo must be immobilized and secured with adequate tiedowns.
When trucking companies cut corners on safety to save a few minutes, lives are lost in Brownwood. We hold them to the federal standard. Learn more by calling 1-888-ATTY-911.
Types of Catastrophic Truck Accidents in Brownwood
The mechanics of a truck accident are far more complex than a standard car crash. Because of the size and weight of these vehicles, unique types of collisions occur that result in devastating injuries.
Jackknife Accidents
On wet or slick roads, or during sudden braking, a trailer can skid and fold at an angle toward the cab. A jackknifing truck can sweep across all lanes of US-67, leaving nearby drivers with nowhere to go. This often leads to multi-vehicle pileups where victims are struck multiple times.
Underride Collisions
This is the most lethal type of truck accident. It occurs when a smaller vehicle strikes the back or side of a trailer and slides underneath. Because the height of the trailer doesn’t match the car’s bumper, the trailer often shears off the top of the passenger car. These accidents often result in decapitation or fatal head injuries. If the truck lacked proper “Mansfield bars” or reflective tape required by 49 CFR 393.86, we will hold them accountable.
Rollover Crashes
Trucks have a high center of gravity. Excessive speed on a curve or a sudden lane change can cause an 18-wheeler to tip. In Brownwood, we often see these on on-ramps or rural highway turns. A rolling truck crushes everything in its path and often triggers secondary explosions or chemical spills.
Wide Turn “Squeeze Play”
18-wheelers need significant room to make a right turn. If a driver swings wide left before turning right without checking their mirrors, they can “squeeze” a passenger car between the truck and the curb. This results in severe crushing injuries and property damage.
Blind Spot (No-Zone) Accidents
Trucks have massive blind spots in the front, rear, and on both sides. Drivers are trained to be aware of these “No-Zones,” yet many fail to check properly before changing lanes. If you were hit by an 18-wheeler that “didn’t see you,” it’s usually because the driver was distracted or improperly trained.
If you’ve experienced any of these scenarios in Brownwood, the time to act is now. Call 1-888-288-9911 for a consultation with Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña.
Liability: Who Pays for Your Injuries?
One reason victims in Brownwood choose Attorney911 is that we don’t just sue the driver. We cast a wide net to find every responsible party and every available insurance policy. In a commercial vehicle case, multiple parties are often legally liable for your damages.
The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)
Under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior, an employer is responsible for the negligent acts of their employees. Beyond that, we pursue the company for their own direct negligence in hiring, training, and supervising the driver.
Corporate Parent Companies
If you were hit by a Walmart truck, an Amazon delivery van, or a Sysco vehicle, the parent corporation may be liable. These companies have billions in assets and carry high-limit insurance policies or use self-insured retention (SIR) structures. We have a proven track record against corporate giants like Walmart, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS.
Freight Brokers and Shippers
Sometimes the person who arranged the shipment is liable. If a freight broker hired a “bottom-tier” trucking company with a history of safety violations just to save money, that broker can be held liable for negligent selection.
Maintenance and Repair Shops
If the accident was caused by a mechanical failure—like brake failure or a steering defect—and a third-party mechanic failed to fix the issue during a recent inspection, that shop shares responsibility.
Manufacturers (Product Liability)
When a defective tire or a faulty underride guard contributes to the severity of a crash, we may bring a product liability claim against the manufacturer.
By identifying every liable party, we ensure there is enough insurance coverage to pay for the catastrophic injuries you’ve suffered. This is what separates our firm from others. Call 888-AtTY-911 to learn how we build the liability chain in your case.
Catastrophic Injuries and Their Life Impact
We understand that a truck accident doesn’t just leave you with medical bills; it leaves you with a different life. Collisions with commercial vehicles often result in permanent, life-altering injuries that require millions of dollars in lifetime care.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
A TBI can change how you think, speak, and feel. Whether it’s a “mild” concussion or a severe brain injury, the cognitive deficits can prevent you from ever returning to work. Our firm has recovered settlements ranging from $1.5 million to over $9.8 million for TBI victims.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
When the force of an 18-wheeler crushes a vehicle, it often results in spinal fractures or severed spinal cords. The cost of living with paraplegia or quadriplegia—including home modifications, specialized vehicles, and 24/7 care—can reach $5 million to $25 million over a lifetime.
Amputations
Crush injuries often lead to the traumatic or surgical loss of a limb. We’ve secured $3.8 million+ for clients who suffered amputations after car-truck collisions. We make sure your settlement covers the best available prosthetics and lifelong rehabilitation.
Wrongful Death
If you lost a spouse, parent, or child in a Brownwood truck accident, we are deeply sorry. No amount of money can replace them, but a wrongful death claim can provide financial security for your family. We’ve fought for Texas families to recover settlements between $1.9 million and $9.5 million in fatal accident cases.
We also represent victims suffering from severe burns, internal organ damage, multiple bone fractures, and PTSD. If you are in pain, we can help you find proper medical care while we fight the legal battle. Call (888) 288-9911 for compassionate help.
The 48-Hour Urgency: Preserving Evidence in Brownwood
In the days following a truck wreck in Brownwood, evidence is at high risk of being lost. The trucking company is legally allowed to destroy certain records after a period of time, and some data is naturally overwritten.
We move within the first 24 to 48 hours to send a formal Spoliation Letter. This legal notice demands that the defendants preserve:
- ECM (Black Box) Data: Including speed, braking, and throttle signals from the seconds before impact.
- ELD Logs: To prove how long the driver had been awake and behind the wheel.
- Dashcam Footage: Many corporate fleets (like Amazon’s Netradyne system) record driver behavior and the road ahead. This footage is often overwritten in days.
- Maintenance Records: To see if the truck was operating with known mechanical defects.
- Dispatch Records: To prove if the company was pressuring the driver to speed or violate HOS rules.
If the company destroys evidence after receiving our letter, we can ask the court for “spoliation sanctions,” which can include a jury instruction to assume the destroyed evidence was bad for the trucking company. This is a powerful tool we use to win cases. Don’t let the evidence disappear—call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.
Corporate Fleet Accidents: Amazon, Walmart, and Beyond
In Brownwood, corporate trucks are everywhere. These companies operate under different structures that they use to hide from liability.
For example, Amazon uses “Delivery Service Partners” (DSPs). When an Amazon van hits you, Amazon will claim the driver doesn’t work for them. However, our associate attorney Lupe Peña knows how to pierce this shield. We show that Amazon controls the routes, the uniforms, and the AI cameras that monitor the driver. We hold the corporate giant accountable, access their deeper insurance layers, and fight for the maximum value of your claim.
Similarly, FedEx Ground uses independent contractors, while UPS uses direct employees. Each requires a different legal strategy. We have successfully litigated against these entities and we know how to cut through the corporate maze.
Brownwood Truck Accident FAQ
How much time do I have to file a lawsuit in Texas?
In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, in cases involving government vehicles (like a city bus or mail truck), the notice deadlines can be as short as 6 months. You should always speak to a lawyer as soon as possible.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule (51% bar). As long as you are not more than 50% responsible for the crash, you can still recover damages. Your total award will simply be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover.
How much is my truck accident case worth?
There is no “average” settlement. The value is based on your medical bills, future care needs, lost income, and pain and suffering. Trucking cases are generally worth much more than car accidents because the injuries are more severe and the insurance policies are larger ($750k to $5M+).
Will my case go to trial?
Most cases settle out of court, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to a jury. When insurance companies see that Ralph Manginello is ready to try the case in a Brown County courtroom, they are much more likely to offer a fair settlement.
Who pays my medical bills while the case is pending?
The trucking company’s insurance will not pay your bills as they come in; they only pay a final settlement. We help our clients find medical providers who will treat them under a “Letter of Protection” (LOP), meaning the provider gets paid out of the final settlement so you don’t have to pay out of pocket during your recovery.
Your Fight for Justice Starts with One Call
Trucking companies take advantage of victims who don’t know their rights. They will offer you a quick, lowball settlement hoping you’ll sign away your right to future compensation. Don’t fall for it. Once you accept their check, you can never ask for more, even if you need another surgery or find out you can never work again.
You deserve a fighter. You deserve a team with 25+ years of experience and the insider knowledge of a former insurance defense attorney. You deserve an attorney who treats you like family.
Call Attorney911 (The Manginello Law Firm) today at 1-888-ATTY-911 or (888) 288-9911. Our Brownwood truck accident attorneys are available 24/7 to hear your story and start building your case. We advance all costs, and we only get paid if you win.
Attorney911: Powerful & Proven. Your first responder in a legal emergency. 1-888-ATTY-911.
