18-Wheeler & Trucking Accident Attorneys in City of Toco, Texas
When an 80,000-Pound Truck Changes Your Life in an Instant
Every year, thousands of families in Texas face life-altering consequences from 18-wheeler accidents. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a trucking accident in City of Toco, Texas, you need an attorney who understands the unique challenges of holding negligent trucking companies accountable.
At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for truck accident victims across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has federal court experience and has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by catastrophic 18-wheeler crashes. We know the trucking corridors serving City of Toco, the local courts, and exactly how to build a case that maximizes your recovery.
Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. Time is critical—evidence disappears fast, and the trucking company’s team is already working to protect their interests.
Why 18-Wheeler Accidents Are Different (And More Dangerous) Than Car Crashes
Most people don’t realize how fundamentally different trucking accidents are from regular car crashes. The physics, the regulations, and the legal strategies required to win these cases are completely unique.
The Physics: 80,000 Pounds vs. 4,000 Pounds
- A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—that’s 20-25 times heavier than the average passenger car.
- At 65 mph, an 18-wheeler needs 525 feet to stop—nearly two football fields. A car needs only 300 feet.
- The force of impact in a truck collision is exponentially greater, often resulting in catastrophic or fatal injuries.
The Regulations: FMCSA Rules Trucking Companies Must Follow
Unlike regular drivers, commercial truck drivers and trucking companies must comply with strict federal regulations under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). When they violate these rules, they create dangerous conditions that lead to accidents.
Common FMCSA Violations We Find in City of Toco Trucking Cases:
- Hours of Service (HOS) Violations – Driving beyond the 11-hour limit or falsifying logbooks
- Inadequate Driver Training – Failing to properly train drivers on safety procedures
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance – Neglecting brake inspections, tire replacements, or other critical repairs
- Improper Cargo Loading – Overloading trucks or failing to secure cargo properly
- Distracted Driving – Using cell phones, GPS, or dispatch devices while driving
- Drug & Alcohol Violations – Operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol
We investigate every possible violation to build the strongest case possible.
The Legal Strategy: Multiple Defendants, Higher Stakes
In a typical car accident, you’re usually dealing with just one driver and their insurance company. In trucking cases, multiple parties can be liable, including:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company (motor carrier)
- The cargo owner or shipper
- The company that loaded the cargo
- The truck or parts manufacturer (if a defect contributed to the crash)
- The maintenance company (if poor repairs caused the accident)
- The freight broker (if they negligently hired an unsafe carrier)
Trucking companies carry much higher insurance policies—often $1 million or more—meaning there’s more compensation available for victims. But insurance companies fight aggressively to minimize payouts. That’s why you need an attorney who knows how to fight back and win.
Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in City of Toco, Texas
Trucking accidents happen in many ways, but some are more common—and more deadly—than others. Here are the most frequent types of 18-wheeler crashes we see in City of Toco and Lamar County:
1. Jackknife Accidents
A jackknife occurs when the trailer swings out to the side, forming a 90-degree angle with the cab, resembling a folding pocket knife. These accidents often block multiple lanes of traffic and cause multi-vehicle pileups.
Common Causes in City of Toco:
- Sudden braking on wet or icy roads (especially on US-82 or SH-24)
- Speeding around sharp curves (such as near Pat Mayse Lake)
- Empty or improperly loaded trailers (more prone to swinging)
- Brake system failures or improper adjustments
Why They’re Dangerous:
Jackknifes often sweep across multiple lanes, giving nearby drivers no time to react. The swinging trailer can crush smaller vehicles or force them off the road.
2. Underride Collisions (The Deadliest Truck Accidents)
An underride collision happens when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the trailer of an 18-wheeler. The trailer’s height often shears off the top of the passenger vehicle, leading to decapitation or catastrophic head and neck injuries.
Two Types of Underride Accidents:
- Rear Underride – When a car strikes the back of a trailer (often at intersections or during sudden stops)
- Side Underride – When a car strikes the side of a trailer (common during lane changes or wide turns)
Common Causes in City of Toco:
- Missing or inadequate underride guards (federal law only requires rear guards, not side guards)
- Poor visibility (especially at night or in foggy conditions common in Lamar County)
- Trucks making sudden stops or wide turns without proper signaling
- Improper lighting or reflectors on trailers
Why They’re So Deadly:
Underride collisions are among the most fatal truck accidents. Even at low speeds, the impact can crush the passenger compartment, killing or severely injuring occupants.
3. Rollover Accidents
Rollovers happen when an 18-wheeler tips onto its side or roof, often due to improper loading, speeding, or sharp turns. These accidents frequently result in cargo spills, fuel leaks, and secondary crashes.
Common Causes in City of Toco:
- Speeding on curves (such as on FM-196 or FM-1528)
- Top-heavy or unevenly loaded cargo (common in agricultural shipments from Lamar County)
- Driver overcorrection after a tire blowout or lane departure
- Liquid cargo “slosh” (shifting weight in tanker trucks)
Why They’re Dangerous:
Rollover accidents often block multiple lanes of traffic, leading to secondary collisions. Spilled cargo (such as hazardous materials, lumber, or produce) can create additional hazards for other drivers.
4. Rear-End Collisions (The Most Common Truck Accident)
When an 18-wheeler rear-ends a smaller vehicle, the results are often catastrophic due to the massive weight disparity.
Common Causes in City of Toco:
- Following too closely (tailgating)
- Driver distraction (cell phones, dispatch communications, GPS)
- Fatigued driving (violating hours-of-service rules)
- Brake failures (poor maintenance or worn brake pads)
- Failure to anticipate traffic slowdowns (especially near City of Toco’s distribution centers)
Why They’re Dangerous:
Even at low speeds, an 80,000-pound truck can crush the rear of a passenger vehicle, causing severe whiplash, spinal injuries, or death.
5. Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play” Crashes)
Trucks need extra space to make turns, often swinging wide (usually to the left) before making a right turn. This creates a dangerous gap that smaller vehicles sometimes try to fill—only to be crushed when the truck completes its turn.
Common Causes in City of Toco:
- Failure to signal properly before turning
- Inadequate mirror checks before and during the turn
- Driver inexperience with trailer tracking
- Poor intersection design (common in older parts of Lamar County)
Why They’re Dangerous:
Wide turn accidents often trap vehicles between the truck and the curb, leading to crushing injuries, amputations, or fatalities.
6. Blind Spot Accidents (“No-Zone” Crashes)
Trucks have four massive blind spots—called “No-Zones”—where the driver cannot see smaller vehicles. Accidents happen when trucks change lanes or turn without checking these blind spots.
The Four “No-Zones”:
- Front No-Zone – 20 feet directly in front of the cab
- Rear No-Zone – 30 feet behind the trailer
- Left Side No-Zone – Extends from the cab door backward
- Right Side No-Zone – Extends from the cab door backward (much larger than the left side)
Common Causes in City of Toco:
- Failure to check mirrors before lane changes
- Improperly adjusted mirrors
- Driver distraction or fatigue
- Failure to signal lane changes
Why They’re Dangerous:
Blind spot accidents often result in sideswipes, rollovers, or vehicles being forced off the road.
7. Tire Blowout Accidents
Tire blowouts are a leading cause of truck accidents, often causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle. Debris from blown tires can also strike other vehicles, causing additional crashes.
Common Causes in City of Toco:
- Underinflated tires (leading to overheating)
- Overloaded trucks (exceeding tire weight limits)
- Worn or aging tires (not replaced when needed)
- Road debris (common on rural Lamar County roads)
- Manufacturing defects (defective tires)
Why They’re Dangerous:
A steer tire blowout (front tires) can cause the truck to swerve violently, while a rear tire blowout can lead to a jackknife or rollover. Flying tire debris can also shatter windshields or cause drivers to lose control.
8. Brake Failure Accidents
Brake failures are responsible for nearly 30% of all truck accidents. When a truck’s brakes fail, the driver cannot stop in time, leading to rear-end collisions, runaway trucks, or intersection crashes.
Common Causes in City of Toco:
- Worn brake pads or shoes (not replaced when needed)
- Improper brake adjustments (too loose)
- Air brake system leaks or failures
- Overheated brakes (common on long descents, such as near Pat Mayse Lake)
- Contaminated brake fluid
- Failure to conduct pre-trip brake inspections
Why They’re Dangerous:
Brake failures often result in high-speed collisions, leading to severe injuries or fatalities.
9. Cargo Spill & Shift Accidents
When cargo is improperly secured, it can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable and roll over. Spilled cargo can also create road hazards, leading to secondary accidents.
Common Causes in City of Toco:
- Inadequate tiedowns (not enough or not strong enough)
- Improper loading distribution (uneven weight)
- Failure to use blocking, bracing, or friction mats
- Tiedown failure (due to wear or damage)
- Overloading beyond securement capacity
Why They’re Dangerous:
- Shifting cargo can cause rollovers or loss of control
- Spilled cargo (such as logs, steel coils, or hazardous materials) can strike other vehicles
- Hazmat spills can cause explosions, fires, or chemical exposure
10. Head-On Collisions (The Most Fatal Truck Accidents)
Head-on collisions occur when a truck crosses into oncoming traffic and strikes a vehicle traveling in the opposite direction. These accidents are almost always fatal due to the combined force of both vehicles’ speeds.
Common Causes in City of Toco:
- Driver fatigue (falling asleep at the wheel)
- Driver distraction (cell phone use, GPS, dispatch communications)
- Impaired driving (drugs or alcohol)
- Medical emergencies (heart attack, seizure)
- Wrong-way entry onto divided highways
- Overcorrection after running off the road (common on rural Lamar County roads)
Why They’re So Deadly:
The closing speed in a head-on collision combines both vehicles’ velocities, resulting in catastrophic impact forces. Survivors often suffer severe traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal cord damage, or amputations.
Catastrophic Injuries from 18-Wheeler Accidents
Due to the massive size and weight of 18-wheelers, trucking accidents often result in life-altering injuries. Many victims require lifelong medical care, and some never fully recover.
1. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
TBI occurs when a sudden trauma damages the brain, often from the head striking a hard surface or from violent shaking during a crash.
Severity Levels:
| Level | Symptoms | Prognosis |
|---|---|---|
| Mild (Concussion) | Headache, confusion, brief loss of consciousness, dizziness, blurred vision | Usually recovers, but may have lasting effects |
| Moderate | Extended unconsciousness, memory problems, cognitive deficits | Significant recovery possible with rehabilitation |
| Severe | Extended coma, permanent cognitive impairment | Lifelong disability, may require 24/7 care |
Lifetime Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+
2. Spinal Cord Injury & Paralysis
Spinal cord injuries occur when damage disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in permanent paralysis.
Types of Paralysis:
| Type | Definition | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Paraplegia | Loss of function below the waist | Cannot walk, may affect bladder/bowel control |
| Quadriplegia (Tetraplegia) | Loss of function in all four limbs | Cannot walk or use arms, may need breathing assistance |
| Incomplete Injury | Some nerve function remains | Variable—may have some sensation or movement |
| Complete Injury | No nerve function below injury | Total loss of sensation and movement |
Lifetime Costs:
- Paraplegia (low): $1.1 million+
- Paraplegia (high): $2.5 million+
- Quadriplegia (low): $3.5 million+
- Quadriplegia (high): $5 million+
3. Amputations
Amputations occur when a limb is severed in the crash or when severe damage requires surgical removal.
Types of Amputation:
- Traumatic Amputation – Limb severed at the scene due to crash forces
- Surgical Amputation – Limb so severely damaged it must be surgically removed
Ongoing Medical Needs:
- Prosthetic limbs ($5,000–$50,000+ each)
- Multiple prosthetic replacements throughout lifetime
- Physical therapy & rehabilitation
- Occupational therapy for daily living skills
- Psychological counseling
Impact on Life:
- Permanent disability
- Career limitations or total disability
- Phantom limb pain (pain in the missing limb)
- Body image and psychological trauma
4. Severe Burns
Burns occur when fuel tanks rupture, hazardous materials ignite, or electrical systems catch fire.
Burn Classification:
| Degree | Depth | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| First | Epidermis only | Minor, heals without scarring |
| Second | Epidermis and dermis | May scar, may need grafting |
| Third | Full thickness | Requires skin grafts, permanent scarring |
| Fourth | Through skin to muscle/bone | Multiple surgeries, amputation may be required |
Long-Term Consequences:
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Multiple reconstructive surgeries
- Chronic pain
- Infection risks
- Psychological trauma
5. Internal Organ Damage
Internal injuries are not always visible but can be life-threatening.
Common Internal Injuries:
- Liver laceration or rupture
- Spleen damage (may require removal)
- Kidney damage
- Lung contusion or collapse (pneumothorax)
- Internal bleeding (hemorrhage)
- Bowel and intestinal damage
Why They’re Dangerous:
- May not show immediate symptoms
- Internal bleeding can be fatal if untreated
- Organ removal affects long-term health
6. Wrongful Death
When a trucking accident kills a loved one, surviving family members can file a wrongful death claim to recover compensation for their loss.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas?
- Surviving spouse
- Children (minor and adult)
- Parents (if no spouse or children exist)
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
- Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before death
- Punitive damages (if gross negligence is proven)
Texas Statute of Limitations: 2 years from the date of death
Who Is Liable for Your 18-Wheeler Accident in City of Toco?
In trucking accidents, multiple parties can share liability. Unlike car accidents—where usually only one driver is at fault—trucking cases often involve a web of companies and individuals who all contributed to the dangerous conditions that caused the crash.
The 10 Potentially Liable Parties in a Trucking Accident
1. The Truck Driver
The driver who caused the accident may be personally liable for their negligent conduct.
Common Driver Violations:
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Distracted driving (cell phone, texting, dispatch communications)
- Fatigued driving (violating hours-of-service rules)
- Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol, prescription medication)
- Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
- Violation of traffic laws (running red lights, improper lane changes)
Evidence We Pursue:
- Driver’s driving record and history
- ELD data showing hours of service
- Drug and alcohol test results
- Cell phone records
- Previous accident history
- Training records
2. The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier
The trucking company is often the most important defendant because they have the deepest pockets (highest insurance limits) and the most responsibility for safety.
Bases for Trucking Company Liability:
Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):
- The driver was an employee (not an independent contractor)
- The driver was acting within the scope of employment
- The accident occurred while the driver was performing job duties
Direct Negligence:
- Negligent Hiring – Failed to check the driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications
- Negligent Training – Inadequate training on safety, cargo securement, or hours of service
- Negligent Supervision – Failed to monitor driver performance or ELD compliance
- Negligent Maintenance – Failed to maintain the vehicle in safe condition
- Negligent Scheduling – Pressured drivers to violate HOS regulations
Evidence We Pursue:
- Driver Qualification File (or lack thereof)
- Hiring policies and background check procedures
- Training records and curricula
- Supervision and monitoring practices
- Dispatch records showing schedule pressure
- Safety culture documentation
- Previous accident/violation history
- CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
Insurance Implications:
Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than individual drivers—often $750,000 to $5,000,000 or more—making them the primary recovery target.
3. The Cargo Owner / Shipper
The company that owns the cargo and arranged for its shipment may be liable if they:
- Provided improper loading instructions
- Failed to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
- Required overweight loading
- Pressured the carrier to expedite beyond safe limits
- Misrepresented cargo weight or characteristics
Evidence We Pursue:
- Shipping contracts and bills of lading
- Loading instructions provided
- Hazmat disclosure documentation
- Weight certification records
4. The Cargo Loading Company
Third-party loading companies that physically load cargo onto trucks may be liable for improper securement.
Bases for Loading Company Liability:
- Improper cargo securement (violating 49 CFR 393)
- Unbalanced load distribution
- Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
- Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
- Not training loaders on securement requirements
Evidence We Pursue:
- Loading company securement procedures
- Loader training records
- Securement equipment used
- Weight distribution documentation
5. The Truck and Trailer Manufacturer
The company that manufactured the truck, trailer, or major components may be liable for defects.
Bases for Manufacturer Liability:
- Design defects (brake systems, stability control, fuel tank placement)
- Manufacturing defects (faulty welds, component failures)
- Failure to warn of known dangers
- Defective safety systems (ABS, ESC, collision warning)
Evidence We Pursue:
- Recall notices and technical service bulletins
- Similar defect complaints (NHTSA database)
- Design specifications and testing records
- Component failure analysis
6. The Parts Manufacturer
Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) may be liable for defective products.
Bases for Parts Liability:
- Defective brakes or brake components
- Defective tires causing blowouts
- Defective steering mechanisms
- Defective lighting components
- Defective coupling devices
Evidence We Pursue:
- Failed component for expert analysis
- Recall history for specific parts
- Similar failure patterns
- Manufacturing and quality control records
7. The Maintenance Company
Third-party maintenance companies that service trucking fleets may be liable for negligent repairs.
Bases for Maintenance Company Liability:
- Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
- Failure to identify critical safety issues
- Improper brake adjustments
- Using substandard or wrong parts
- Returning vehicles to service with known defects
Evidence We Pursue:
- Maintenance work orders
- Mechanic qualifications and training
- Parts used in repairs
- Inspection reports and recommendations
8. The Freight Broker
Freight brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks may be liable for negligent carrier selection.
Bases for Broker Liability:
- Negligent selection of a carrier with a poor safety record
- Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
- Failure to check carrier CSA scores
- Selecting the cheapest carrier despite safety concerns
Evidence We Pursue:
- Broker-carrier agreements
- Carrier selection criteria
- Carrier safety record at time of selection
- Broker’s due diligence procedures
9. The Truck Owner (If Different from the Carrier)
In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may have separate liability.
Bases for Owner Liability:
- Negligent entrustment of the vehicle
- Failure to maintain owned equipment
- Knowledge of the driver’s unfitness
Evidence We Pursue:
- Lease agreements
- Maintenance responsibility allocations
- Owner’s knowledge of driver history
10. Government Entities
Federal, state, or local government may be liable in limited circumstances.
Bases for Government Liability:
- Dangerous road design that contributed to the accident
- Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)
- Inadequate signage for known hazards
- Failure to install safety barriers
- Improper work zone setup
Special Considerations:
- Sovereign immunity limits government liability
- Strict notice requirements and short deadlines
- Must prove actual notice of the dangerous condition
Evidence We Pursue:
- Road design specifications
- Maintenance records
- Prior accident history at the location
- Citizen complaints about the condition
How We Investigate Your 18-Wheeler Accident Case
At Attorney911, we leave no stone unturned in investigating trucking accidents. We know that evidence disappears fast, so we act immediately to preserve critical data before it’s lost forever.
Our 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol
Phase 1: Immediate Response (0-48 Hours)
- Send spoliation letters to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties
- Demand preservation of ECM/black box data, ELD records, maintenance logs, and dashcam footage
- Secure the scene by canvassing for surveillance video from nearby businesses
- Photograph the accident scene (skid marks, debris patterns, road conditions)
- Interview witnesses before memories fade
- Obtain the police crash report
Phase 2: Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)
- Subpoena ECM/black box data (speed, braking, throttle position)
- Request ELD records (hours of service, GPS location)
- Obtain the Driver Qualification File (hiring, training, medical records)
- Subpoena maintenance records (brake inspections, tire replacements)
- Request dispatch logs and trip records
- Obtain drug and alcohol test results
- Subpoena cell phone records (distracted driving evidence)
- Hire accident reconstruction experts
Phase 3: Expert Analysis
- Accident reconstruction specialist – Determines speed, braking, and crash dynamics
- Medical experts – Establish causation and future care needs
- Vocational experts – Calculate lost earning capacity
- Economic experts – Determine present value of all damages
- Life care planners – Develop comprehensive care plans for catastrophic injuries
- FMCSA regulation experts – Identify all violations
Phase 4: Litigation Strategy
- File a lawsuit before the 2-year statute of limitations expires
- Pursue aggressive discovery against all potentially liable parties
- Depose the truck driver, dispatcher, safety manager, and maintenance personnel
- Build a case for trial while negotiating settlement from a position of strength
We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial—because that’s the best way to maximize your settlement.
The Evidence That Wins Trucking Accident Cases
In trucking cases, evidence is everything. The trucking company and their insurer will fight aggressively to minimize your claim. To win, you need objective, irrefutable evidence that proves negligence.
Critical Evidence in Trucking Accident Cases
| Evidence Type | What It Shows | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| ECM/Black Box Data | Speed, braking, throttle position, following distance | Proves whether the driver was speeding, following too closely, or braking too late |
| ELD Records | Hours of service, GPS location, driving time | Proves fatigue violations and route deviations |
| Driver Qualification File | Employment application, driving record, medical certification | Proves negligent hiring or lack of proper qualifications |
| Maintenance Records | Brake inspections, tire replacements, repair history | Shows whether the truck was properly maintained |
| Dispatch Records | Trip schedules, delivery deadlines | Proves whether the company pressured the driver to violate HOS rules |
| Drug & Alcohol Tests | Impairment at the time of the accident | Proves whether the driver was under the influence |
| Cell Phone Records | Texts, calls, app usage | Proves distracted driving |
| GPS/Telematics Data | Real-time location, speed, route | Confirms the driver’s actions before the crash |
| Dashcam Footage | Video of the accident and driver behavior | Provides visual proof of what happened |
| Cargo Manifest | Type and weight of cargo | Shows whether the truck was overloaded or improperly secured |
| Witness Statements | Independent accounts of the accident | Corroborates your version of events |
How Much Is Your 18-Wheeler Accident Case Worth?
Every trucking accident case is unique, and the value depends on many factors. However, because trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than regular drivers, these cases often result in significantly larger settlements and verdicts.
Factors That Affect Your Case Value
| Factor | How It Affects Your Case |
|---|---|
| Severity of Injuries | Catastrophic injuries (TBI, paralysis, amputations) result in higher compensation |
| Medical Expenses | Past, present, and future medical costs are fully recoverable |
| Lost Wages & Earning Capacity | If you can’t work or your earning potential is reduced, you can recover lost income |
| Pain and Suffering | Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life |
| Degree of Negligence | Gross negligence (reckless conduct) can lead to punitive damages |
| Insurance Coverage | Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5,000,000+ in coverage |
| Comparative Fault | If you were partially at fault, your recovery may be reduced (but not eliminated in Texas) |
Documented Settlement & Verdict Ranges
| Injury Type | Typical Settlement Range |
|---|---|
| Soft Tissue Injuries (Whiplash, Sprains) | $15,000 – $60,000 |
| Herniated Disc (Non-Surgical) | $50,000 – $200,000 |
| Herniated Disc (With Surgery) | $346,000 – $1,205,000 |
| Traumatic Brain Injury (Moderate to Severe) | $1,548,000 – $9,838,000+ |
| Spinal Cord Injury (Paraplegia) | $4,770,000 – $25,880,000+ |
| Amputation | $1,945,000 – $8,630,000 |
| Wrongful Death | $1,910,000 – $9,520,000+ |
Note: These are general ranges based on past cases. Your case value depends on the specific facts of your accident.
Recent Trucking Verdicts & Settlements (What’s Possible in Your Case)
Juries across the country are holding trucking companies accountable with record-breaking verdicts. These “nuclear verdicts” send a message that reckless trucking companies will pay for their negligence.
Recent Multi-Million Dollar Trucking Verdicts (2024-2025)
| Amount | Year | Location | Case Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| $462 Million | 2024 | St. Louis, MO | Underride collision where two men were decapitated |
| $160 Million | 2024 | Alabama | Daimler truck rollover left driver quadriplegic |
| $141.5 Million | 2024 | Florida | Defunct carrier crash with catastrophic injuries |
| $90 Million | 2024 | Houston, TX | Truck driver burned in explosion |
| $37.5 Million | 2024 | Texas | Catastrophic trucking accident with severe injuries |
| $35.5 Million | 2024 | Texas | Family injured in truck accident |
| $35 Million | 2025 | Fort Worth, TX | Largest wrongful death trucking verdict in Tarrant County |
Historic Landmark Verdicts
| Amount | Year | Case Details |
|---|---|---|
| $1 Billion | 2021 | Florida |
| $411 Million | 2020 | Florida |
What This Means for Your Case:
These verdicts show that juries are fed up with reckless trucking companies and are willing to award massive damages to hold them accountable. Insurance companies know this, which strengthens our negotiating position when seeking fair settlements.
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your City of Toco Trucking Accident Case?
When you’re up against a trucking company with a team of lawyers and millions in insurance, you need an attorney who fights back just as hard. At Attorney911, we have the experience, resources, and track record to take on the biggest trucking companies—and win.
1. 25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience
Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for truck accident victims since 1998. He has:
- Recovered multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for trucking accident victims
- Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
- Experience in BP explosion litigation against multinational corporations
- Deep familiarity with City of Toco’s trucking corridors, weigh stations, and accident patterns
2. Insider Knowledge of Insurance Company Tactics
Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking insurers evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. He spent years working inside the system, learning their tactics. Now, he uses that knowledge to fight for you.
What Lupe Knows (And How It Helps You):
| What He Learned | How It Helps You |
|---|---|
| How insurance companies value claims | He knows their formulas and can maximize your recovery |
| How adjusters are trained | He recognizes their manipulation tactics immediately |
| What makes them settle | He knows when they’re bluffing and when they’ll pay |
| How they minimize payouts | He counters every tactic they use against you |
| How they deny claims | He knows how to fight wrongful denials |
| Claims valuation software (Colossus, etc.) | He understands how algorithms undervalue your suffering |
3. We Handle the Most Complex Trucking Cases
We’ve taken on Fortune 500 trucking operations, including:
- Walmart trucks
- Coca-Cola distribution vehicles
- Amazon delivery trucks
- FedEx trucks
- UPS trucks
- Various commercial trucking companies
We’re not afraid of big corporations—we hold them accountable.
4. Proven Multi-Million Dollar Results
We’ve recovered $50+ million for Texas families, including:
- $5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement
- $3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement
- $2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery
- $2+ Million – Maritime back injury settlement
- Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases
5. Aggressive Evidence Preservation
We act fast to preserve critical evidence before it disappears:
- ECM/Black Box Data (overwrites in 30 days)
- ELD Records (may be retained only 6 months)
- Dashcam Footage (often deleted within 7-14 days)
- Surveillance Video (business cameras typically overwrite in 7-30 days)
- Physical Evidence (vehicles may be repaired or scrapped)
We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to demand preservation of all evidence.
6. We Fight for Maximum Compensation
Insurance companies lowball victims with quick settlement offers. We never accept the first offer—we fight for every dollar you deserve.
Our track record speaks for itself:
- $10M+ – Active University of Houston hazing lawsuit (2025)
- $5M+ – Logging brain injury settlement
- $3.8M+ – Car accident amputation settlement
- $2.5M+ – Truck crash recovery
7. We Treat You Like Family
We understand that a trucking accident changes your life in an instant. You’re not just a case number to us—you’re family.
What our clients say about us:
“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client
“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris,
