DPS Pursuit on IH-35 Ends in Fire Hydrant Crash, DWI Arrest — What Laredo Drivers Need to Know About Trucking Accidents and Their Rights
The Incident: What Happened on IH-35 in Laredo
It was a Sunday afternoon on February 23, 2026, when a routine traffic stop on Interstate Highway 35 (IH-35) in Laredo, Texas, escalated into a high-speed pursuit that ended in a violent collision with a fire hydrant. According to reports, Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) troopers attempted to stop a vehicle for a traffic violation around 4:50 PM. Instead of pulling over, the driver fled, leading law enforcement on a chase that ultimately resulted in the vehicle crashing into a fire hydrant and coming to rest on its side.
The driver was arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated (DWI), a charge that carries serious legal consequences in Texas. While no other vehicles were reportedly involved in this particular crash, the incident raises critical questions about the dangers of high-speed pursuits, impaired driving, and the broader risks that trucking accidents pose to Laredo’s drivers every day.
For residents of Laredo and Webb County, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the hazards that exist on our highways—hazards that are often amplified when large commercial vehicles are involved. While this specific crash did not involve an 18-wheeler, the factors at play—speeding, impaired driving, and lane violations—are among the leading causes of catastrophic trucking accidents in Texas and across the nation.
The Root Causes of Trucking Accidents: Lessons from the IH-35 Pursuit
While the recent DPS pursuit did not involve a commercial vehicle, the factors that led to the crash—speeding, impaired driving, and lane violations—are among the most common causes of trucking accidents in Texas. Understanding these root causes is critical for Laredo drivers, not only to protect themselves on the road but also to recognize when they may have legal recourse after an accident.
1. Speeding: A Deadly Choice on Texas Highways
Speeding is a factor in nearly one-third of all fatal trucking accidents in the United States. On highways like IH-35, where traffic flows at high speeds and congestion is common, speeding becomes even more dangerous. Commercial trucks require significantly more distance to stop than passenger vehicles—up to 525 feet when traveling at 65 mph, compared to about 300 feet for a car. When a truck driver speeds, they reduce their ability to react to sudden changes in traffic, increasing the likelihood of a catastrophic collision.
Federal regulations under 49 CFR § 392.6 explicitly prohibit motor carriers from scheduling runs in a way that would require drivers to exceed posted speed limits. Yet, speeding remains a persistent problem in the trucking industry, often driven by unrealistic delivery deadlines and pressure from carriers to maximize profits. When trucking companies prioritize speed over safety, they put everyone on the road at risk.
How Speeding Causes Trucking Accidents:
– Reduced stopping distance: At 65 mph, a fully loaded truck needs the length of two football fields to come to a complete stop. Speeding reduces this distance even further, making it nearly impossible to avoid collisions.
– Increased rollover risk: Speeding on curves or during sudden lane changes can cause trucks to roll over, especially when carrying top-heavy or improperly secured loads.
– Loss of control: High speeds make it harder for drivers to maintain control of their vehicles, particularly in adverse weather conditions or on uneven road surfaces.
For Laredo drivers, the lesson is clear: if you see a truck speeding on IH-35 or any other highway, give it a wide berth. Speeding trucks are ticking time bombs, and the consequences of a collision can be catastrophic.
2. Impaired Driving: A Growing Threat in the Trucking Industry
The driver in the recent IH-35 pursuit was arrested on suspicion of DWI, a charge that highlights another critical issue in the trucking industry: impaired driving. While alcohol impairment is less common among commercial drivers than in the general population—thanks in part to strict federal regulations—drug use, including prescription medications and illegal substances, is a growing problem.
Under 49 CFR § 392.4 and § 392.5, commercial drivers are prohibited from operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substance that could impair their ability to drive safely. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for commercial drivers is 0.04%, half the limit for non-commercial drivers. Despite these strict rules, impaired driving remains a leading cause of trucking accidents.
The Scope of the Problem:
– Drug use among truck drivers: A 2022 study by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) found that nearly 30% of truck drivers involved in fatal crashes tested positive for at least one drug, including marijuana, cocaine, and amphetamines. Many drivers use stimulants to stay awake during long hauls, but these drugs can impair judgment and reaction time.
– Prescription medications: Many truck drivers take prescription medications for conditions like sleep apnea, diabetes, or chronic pain. Some of these medications can cause drowsiness or other side effects that impair driving ability.
– Fatigue as impairment: While not a substance, fatigue is a form of impairment that can be just as dangerous as drugs or alcohol. Federal hours-of-service (HOS) regulations (49 CFR § 395) are designed to prevent fatigue, but violations are common, and the effects of fatigue on driving performance are well-documented.
Why Impaired Driving Is So Dangerous:
– Slowed reaction time: Impaired drivers take longer to react to hazards, increasing the risk of collisions.
– Poor judgment: Drugs and alcohol impair a driver’s ability to assess risks and make safe decisions.
– Increased aggression: Some substances, like stimulants, can make drivers more aggressive or reckless.
– Drowsiness: Fatigue impairs a driver’s ability to stay alert and maintain control of their vehicle.
For Laredo’s drivers, the message is simple: if you suspect a truck driver is impaired, report it immediately. Impaired truck drivers are a danger to everyone on the road, and their actions can have devastating consequences.
3. Lane Violations: A Common Cause of Trucking Accidents
Lane violations—including improper lane changes, drifting out of lanes, and failure to signal—are another leading cause of trucking accidents. In the recent IH-35 pursuit, the driver’s decision to flee law enforcement likely involved erratic lane changes and other dangerous maneuvers. While this incident did not involve a commercial vehicle, lane violations are a persistent problem in the trucking industry, often resulting in sideswipe collisions, rollovers, and underride accidents.
Under 49 CFR § 392.11, commercial drivers are required to operate their vehicles in a safe and controlled manner, including maintaining their lane and signaling before changing lanes. However, lane violations remain a common issue, particularly on highways like IH-35, where traffic is dense and drivers are under pressure to meet tight delivery deadlines.
How Lane Violations Cause Trucking Accidents:
– Sideswipe collisions: When a truck drifts into another lane, it can sideswipe passenger vehicles, causing loss of control and secondary crashes.
– Underride accidents: If a truck changes lanes without signaling and cuts off a passenger vehicle, the smaller vehicle can slide underneath the trailer, often resulting in decapitation or catastrophic injuries.
– Rollover accidents: Sudden lane changes, especially at high speeds, can cause trucks to roll over, particularly if the cargo is improperly secured or the load is top-heavy.
– Blind spot accidents: Trucks have large blind spots, or “No-Zones,” on all four sides. When drivers fail to check these blind spots before changing lanes, they can collide with vehicles they cannot see.
For Laredo drivers, the key to avoiding lane violation accidents is to stay out of a truck’s blind spots. If you cannot see the truck driver’s mirrors, the driver cannot see you. Always pass trucks quickly and avoid lingering in their blind spots.
The Human Cost: Catastrophic Injuries in Trucking Accidents
Trucking accidents are not like typical car accidents. The sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles mean that collisions often result in catastrophic injuries or death. For victims and their families, the physical, emotional, and financial toll can be overwhelming.
Common Catastrophic Injuries in Trucking Accidents
| Injury Type | Description | Long-Term Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) | Damage to the brain caused by a sudden impact or penetration. | Cognitive impairment, memory loss, personality changes, permanent disability, increased risk of dementia. |
| Spinal Cord Injury | Damage to the spinal cord that disrupts communication between the brain and body. | Paralysis (paraplegia or quadriplegia), loss of sensation, chronic pain, permanent disability. |
| Amputation | Loss of a limb due to traumatic injury or surgical removal. | Permanent disability, chronic pain, psychological trauma, need for prosthetics and rehabilitation. |
| Severe Burns | Thermal, chemical, or electrical burns that damage skin and underlying tissues. | Permanent scarring, disfigurement, chronic pain, multiple reconstructive surgeries, psychological trauma. |
| Internal Organ Damage | Damage to organs such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, or lungs. | Organ failure, chronic health issues, permanent disability, death. |
| Multiple Fractures | Broken bones, often in multiple locations. | Chronic pain, limited mobility, permanent disability, need for multiple surgeries. |
| Wrongful Death | Death caused by the negligence of another party. | Loss of income, loss of companionship, funeral expenses, emotional trauma for surviving family. |
The Financial Toll of Catastrophic Injuries
The financial cost of catastrophic injuries can be staggering. According to the National Safety Council, the average lifetime cost of a non-fatal disabling injury is over $1 million. For severe injuries like traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury, the costs can exceed $5 million.
Typical Costs Associated with Catastrophic Injuries:
| Cost Category | Examples | Estimated Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Expenses | Emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, assistive devices | $500,000 – $5,000,000+ |
| Lost Wages | Income lost due to inability to work during recovery | $100,000 – $2,000,000+ |
| Lost Earning Capacity | Reduction in future earning ability due to permanent disability | $500,000 – $5,000,000+ |
| Pain and Suffering | Physical pain, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life | $250,000 – $10,000,000+ |
| Home Modifications | Wheelchair ramps, bathroom modifications, widened doorways | $50,000 – $500,000+ |
| Assistive Devices | Wheelchairs, prosthetics, home medical equipment | $20,000 – $200,000+ |
| Rehabilitation | Physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy | $100,000 – $1,000,000+ |
| Long-Term Care | Nursing home care, in-home assistance | $100,000 – $5,000,000+ per year |
The Emotional and Psychological Impact
Beyond the physical and financial toll, trucking accidents often leave victims and their families with deep emotional scars. Survivors may struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and survivor’s guilt. Families of wrongful death victims may experience profound grief, anger, and a sense of injustice.
Common Psychological Effects of Trucking Accidents:
– PTSD: Flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety related to the accident.
– Depression: Feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and loss of interest in life.
– Anxiety: Fear of driving or being near large trucks.
– Survivor’s Guilt: Feelings of guilt for surviving when others did not.
– Loss of Consortium: Damage to marital and family relationships due to injury or death.
Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Trucking Accident Case
Trucking accident cases are not like typical car accident claims. They involve complex federal regulations, multiple liable parties, and aggressive insurance companies that will do everything in their power to minimize your claim. To level the playing field, you need an attorney with the experience, resources, and determination to fight for the compensation you deserve.
At Attorney911, we have been fighting for trucking accident victims in Laredo, Webb County, and across Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, is a seasoned trial attorney with a proven track record of securing multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for our clients. Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate and minimize claims—and how to counter their tactics.
Our Experience and Track Record
- 25+ Years of Trucking Litigation Experience: Ralph Manginello has been handling trucking accident cases since 1998, giving him unparalleled expertise in this complex area of law.
- Multi-Million Dollar Verdicts and Settlements: We have recovered millions of dollars for trucking accident victims, including cases involving catastrophic injuries and wrongful death.
- Federal Court Admission: Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, allowing us to handle interstate trucking cases that may fall under federal jurisdiction.
- Insider Knowledge of Insurance Tactics: Lupe Peña’s background as an insurance defense attorney gives us a unique advantage in negotiating with insurance companies and building strong cases.
- Comprehensive Investigation: We leave no stone unturned in investigating trucking accidents, working with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other specialists to build the strongest possible case.
- Contingency Fee Basis: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. This ensures that everyone has access to high-quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.
Our Approach to Trucking Accident Cases
At Attorney911, we understand that every trucking accident is unique. Our approach is tailored to the specific facts of your case, but our core principles remain the same:
- Immediate Action: We act fast to preserve evidence before it disappears. Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we send spoliation letters to demand that all evidence be preserved.
- Thorough Investigation: We conduct a comprehensive investigation to identify all liable parties and gather critical evidence, including ECM/Black Box data, ELD records, and maintenance logs.
- Aggressive Negotiation: We negotiate aggressively with insurance companies to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries. If they refuse to offer a fair settlement, we are prepared to take your case to trial.
- Compassionate Representation: We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that trucking accidents take on victims and their families. We provide compassionate, personalized representation every step of the way.
- No Fee Unless We Win: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. This ensures that you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal battle.
What Our Clients Say
Our clients’ satisfaction is our top priority. Here’s what some of our clients have to say about their experience with Attorney911:
“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, Attorney911 Client“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client“Ralph reached out personally.”
— Dame Haskett, Attorney911 Client“One of Houston’s Great Men Trae Tha Truth has recommended this law firm. So if he is vouching for them then I know they do good work.”
— Jacqueline Johnson, Attorney911 Client
The Role of FMCSA Enforcement: Holding Trucking Companies Accountable
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is responsible for enforcing federal trucking regulations and holding motor carriers accountable for safety violations. When trucking companies violate these regulations, they not only put lives at risk but also expose themselves to legal liability in the event of an accident.
Common FMCSA Violations in Trucking Accidents
| Violation | Regulation | Description | Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hours of Service Violations | 49 CFR § 395 | Driving beyond the 11-hour limit, failing to take required breaks, or exceeding weekly driving limits. | Fatigue-related accidents, driver exhaustion, increased risk of collisions. |
| False Log Entries | 49 CFR § 395.8 | Falsifying ELD or paper log records to conceal hours-of-service violations. | Driver fatigue, increased risk of accidents, legal liability for falsification. |
| Brake System Deficiencies | 49 CFR § 393.48 | Worn brakes, improper adjustment, or brake system failures. | Increased stopping distance, rear-end collisions, rollover accidents. |
| Cargo Securement Failures | 49 CFR § 393.100-136 | Inadequate tiedowns, improper loading, or failure to secure cargo. | Rollover accidents, cargo spills, loss of control. |
| Unqualified Drivers | 49 CFR § 391.11 | Operating without a valid CDL, medical certification, or proper training. | Increased risk of accidents due to inexperience or medical conditions. |
| Drug and Alcohol Violations | 49 CFR § 392.4, § 392.5 | Operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol. | Impaired driving, increased risk of collisions. |
| Mobile Phone Use | 49 CFR § 392.82 | Texting or using a hand-held phone while driving. | Distracted driving, increased risk of accidents. |
| Failure to Inspect | 49 CFR § 396.13 | Failing to conduct pre-trip inspections or ignoring known defects. | Equipment failures, increased risk of accidents. |
| Improper Lighting | 49 CFR § 393.11-26 | Non-functioning lights, missing reflectors, or inadequate visibility. | Reduced visibility, increased risk of collisions. |
| Negligent Hiring | 49 CFR § 391.51 | Failing to conduct background checks or hiring drivers with poor safety records. | Increased risk of accidents due to unqualified drivers. |
FMCSA’s Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) Program
The FMCSA’s CSA program is designed to improve the safety of commercial motor vehicles by identifying high-risk carriers and drivers. The program uses a scoring system to evaluate carriers based on their safety performance in seven categories:
- Unsafe Driving: Speeding, reckless driving, improper lane changes.
- Hours-of-Service Compliance: Violations of driving time limits and rest requirements.
- Driver Fitness: Unqualified drivers, invalid CDLs, or medical certification issues.
- Controlled Substances/Alcohol: Drug and alcohol violations.
- Vehicle Maintenance: Brake, lighting, or other equipment violations.
- Hazardous Materials Compliance: Improper handling or securement of hazardous materials.
- Crash Indicator: History of preventable crashes.
Carriers with poor CSA scores are more likely to be involved in accidents, and their scores can be used as evidence of negligence in trucking accident cases.
What Laredo Drivers Can Do to Protect Themselves
While trucking accidents are a reality on Laredo’s highways, there are steps drivers can take to reduce their risk and protect themselves in the event of an accident.
Defensive Driving Tips for Sharing the Road with Trucks
-
Stay Out of Blind Spots:
Trucks have large blind spots, or “No-Zones,” on all four sides. If you cannot see the truck driver’s mirrors, the driver cannot see you. Avoid lingering in these blind spots, and pass trucks quickly and safely. -
Give Trucks Plenty of Space:
Trucks require significantly more distance to stop than passenger vehicles. Maintain a safe following distance, and avoid cutting in front of trucks. -
Pass Safely:
When passing a truck, do so quickly and on the left side, where the blind spot is smaller. Never pass a truck on the right, as this is the largest blind spot. -
Avoid Distractions:
Distracted driving is dangerous in any situation, but it is particularly risky when sharing the road with large trucks. Avoid using your phone, eating, or engaging in other distractions while driving. -
Be Cautious at Intersections:
Trucks make wide turns and may swing into adjacent lanes. Be cautious when approaching intersections, and never try to squeeze between a turning truck and the curb. -
Watch for Signs of Impaired or Fatigued Driving:
If you notice a truck weaving, speeding, or drifting out of its lane, it may be a sign of impaired or fatigued driving. Keep your distance and report the truck to law enforcement if possible. -
Report Unsafe Trucks:
If you see a truck with obvious safety issues—such as worn tires, broken lights, or improperly secured cargo—report it to the FMCSA or local law enforcement.
What to Do If You’re Involved in a Trucking Accident
-
Call 911:
Report the accident and request police and medical assistance. A police report will document the accident and provide critical evidence for your case. -
Seek Medical Attention:
Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention immediately. Many injuries, such as traumatic brain injury or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away. -
Document the Scene:
If you are able, take photographs and videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and your injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses. -
Obtain the Truck Driver’s Information:
Get the truck driver’s name, contact information, CDL number, and insurance details. Also, obtain the name and contact information of the trucking company. -
Do Not Give a Recorded Statement:
Insurance adjusters may contact you and ask for a recorded statement. Do not give one without consulting an attorney. Anything you say can be used against you to minimize your claim. -
Contact an Attorney:
Trucking accident cases are complex and require specialized legal expertise. Contact an experienced trucking accident attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and preserve critical evidence.
Conclusion: Your Rights Matter—Fight for the Compensation You Deserve
The recent DPS pursuit on IH-35 is a sobering reminder of the dangers that exist on Laredo’s highways. While this incident did not involve a commercial vehicle, it highlights the broader issues of speeding, impaired driving, and lane violations that contribute to trucking accidents every day. For Laredo’s drivers, sharing the road with 18-wheelers is a daily reality—but it doesn’t have to be a daily risk.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Laredo or Webb County, you have rights. Trucking companies and their insurers will do everything in their power to minimize your claim, but you don’t have to face them alone. At Attorney911, we have the experience, resources, and determination to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Ralph Manginello and our team of trucking accident attorneys have been holding negligent trucking companies accountable for over 25 years. We know the tactics that insurers use to deny or minimize claims, and we know how to counter them. From preserving critical evidence to negotiating with insurance companies to taking your case to trial, we will be by your side every step of the way.
Take Action Now—Before It’s Too Late
Evidence in trucking accident cases disappears quickly. ECM/Black Box data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days. Dashcam footage may be deleted within weeks. Witness memories fade. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to build a strong case.
Don’t let the trucking company destroy the evidence that could prove your case. Call Attorney911 now for a free consultation.
📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
📞 (713) 528-9070
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 https://attorney911.com
Hablamos Español. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911 hoy mismo.
Why Choose Attorney911?
✅ 25+ Years of Experience: Ralph Manginello has been fighting for trucking accident victims since 1998.
✅ Multi-Million Dollar Verdicts and Settlements: We have recovered millions for our clients.
✅ Federal Court Admission: We can handle interstate trucking cases in federal court.
✅ Insider Knowledge of Insurance Tactics: Lupe Peña’s background as an insurance defense attorney gives us a unique advantage.
✅ Comprehensive Investigation: We leave no stone unturned in building your case.
✅ Contingency Fee Basis: You pay nothing unless we win your case.
What Our Clients Say
“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, Attorney911 Client“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client
Learn More About Your Rights
For more information on trucking accidents and your legal rights, check out these resources from Attorney911:
📺 The Victim’s Guide to 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries
📺 Can I Sue for Being Hit by a Semi Truck?
📺 The Definitive Guide To Commercial Truck Accidents
📺 Truck Tire Blowouts and When You Need a Lawyer
📺 The Definitive Guide To MCS 90 Auto Endorsements
Final Thoughts: Justice for Laredo’s Trucking Accident Victims
Trucking accidents are not just accidents—they are often the result of corporate negligence, regulatory violations, and a culture that prioritizes profits over safety. For victims and their families, the physical, emotional, and financial toll can be overwhelming. But you don’t have to face this battle alone.
At Attorney911, we believe that justice means holding negligent trucking companies accountable and securing the compensation that victims need to rebuild their lives. If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Laredo or Webb County, call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.
Your fight is our fight. Let’s win it together.