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Dump Truck Accident in New Braunfels Kills Stephanie Madzy — New Braunfels, Comal County, Texas Attorney911 Brings 25+ Years of Multi-Million Dollar Trucking Verdicts, Former Insurance Defense Attorney Insider Advantage, FMCSA Regulation Masters (49 CFR 390-399), Black Box & ELD Data Extraction Specialists, Jackknife, Rollover, Underride & All Crash Types, Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Advocates — $50+ Million Recovered for Texas Families, Free 24/7 Consultation, No Fee Unless We Win, 1-888-ATTY-911, Hablamos Español

February 26, 2026 36 min read
Dump Truck Accident in New Braunfels Kills Stephanie Madzy — New Braunfels, Comal County, Texas Attorney911 Brings 25+ Years of Multi-Million Dollar Trucking Verdicts, Former Insurance Defense Attorney Insider Advantage, FMCSA Regulation Masters (49 CFR 390-399), Black Box & ELD Data Extraction Specialists, Jackknife, Rollover, Underride & All Crash Types, Wrongful Death & Catastrophic Injury Advocates — $50+ Million Recovered for Texas Families, Free 24/7 Consultation, No Fee Unless We Win, 1-888-ATTY-911, Hablamos Español - Attorney911

New Braunfels Dump Truck Accident Kills Pedestrian: Why Drivers Must Yield and How Families Can Seek Justice

Every intersection in New Braunfels tells a story. Some are quiet suburban crossings where families walk to school. Others are busy commercial corridors where trucks rumble through on their way to San Antonio or Austin. But on February 24, 2026, the intersection of North Seguin Avenue and Mill Street became the scene of a preventable tragedy that changed one family forever.

Stephanie Madzy, 60, was struck and killed by a dump truck that had stopped at a red light but failed to yield the right of way to pedestrians. The driver, a 60-year-old man, was taken into custody on a charge of criminally negligent homicide. As New Braunfels police continue their investigation, one fact is already clear: this accident should never have happened.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen what happens when trucking companies cut corners, when drivers ignore basic safety rules, and when communities are left to pick up the pieces. This isn’t just another news story—it’s a wake-up call for every pedestrian, every driver, and every family in New Braunfels and Comal County. Because the same dangers that took Stephanie Madzy’s life exist on our own streets, from the historic downtown to the growing commercial corridors along I-35.

What Happened at North Seguin Avenue and Mill Street

The facts of this case are still emerging, but the basic sequence is clear:

  • Location: The 200 block of North Seguin Avenue, New Braunfels, Texas
  • Time: Monday evening, February 24, 2026
  • Vehicles Involved: A dump truck (driver: 60-year-old male) and a pedestrian (Stephanie Madzy, 60)
  • Sequence: The dump truck stopped at a red light at the intersection of North Seguin Avenue and Mill Street
  • Fatal Error: The driver failed to yield the right of way to pedestrians
  • Outcome: Stephanie Madzy was pronounced dead at the scene
  • Legal Response: The driver was taken into custody on a charge of criminally negligent homicide

This wasn’t a high-speed collision on a highway. It wasn’t a jackknife accident during a storm. It was a basic failure to follow one of the most fundamental rules of the road: pedestrians have the right of way at intersections.

The dump truck involved in this accident was significantly heavier than any passenger vehicle—likely 20,000 to 30,000 pounds when loaded. When that kind of mass collides with a human body, the outcome is almost always catastrophic. Dump trucks, like all large commercial vehicles, have massive blind spots, longer stopping distances, and limited maneuverability. But none of those factors excuse failing to yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk.

Why Pedestrian Deaths Are Rising—and Why New Braunfels Isn’t Immune

Pedestrian safety isn’t just a big-city problem. Over the last decade, pedestrian deaths have increased at a rate nearly seven times faster than U.S. population growth. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), pedestrian fatalities rose by 77% from 2010 to 2021, while the U.S. population grew by just 7% during the same period.

Why is this happening?

  1. More Large Vehicles on the Road: SUVs and trucks now make up 80% of new vehicle sales. These taller, heavier vehicles are more likely to cause fatal injuries in pedestrian collisions.
  2. Distracted Driving: Cell phone use, in-cab technology, and other distractions take drivers’ eyes off the road.
  3. Poor Road Design: Many intersections, especially in growing areas like New Braunfels, weren’t designed with pedestrian safety in mind.
  4. Driver Fatigue: Commercial drivers under pressure to meet deadlines may rush or become less attentive.
  5. Failure to Yield: This is the specific violation in Stephanie Madzy’s case—and it’s one of the most common causes of pedestrian fatalities.

New Braunfels and Comal County are not immune to these trends. Our community is growing rapidly, with new developments, increased traffic, and more pedestrians sharing the road with commercial vehicles. The same dump trucks that serve our construction boom and supply our businesses also pose a daily risk to anyone walking near our streets.

Texas law is clear: pedestrians have the right of way at intersections, whether or not a crosswalk is marked.

This isn’t just common courtesy—it’s a legal obligation. When a driver fails to yield and causes a fatal accident, the consequences can be severe:

  • Criminal Charges: As in this case, drivers can face criminally negligent homicide charges.
  • Civil Liability: The driver and their employer can be sued for wrongful death.
  • Regulatory Violations: Commercial drivers and trucking companies can face FMCSA violations and fines.

FMCSA Regulations on Pedestrian Safety:

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates commercial vehicles, including dump trucks. While FMCSA regulations don’t specifically address pedestrian right-of-way (that’s governed by state traffic laws), they do establish critical safety standards that apply to this case:

Regulation Requirement Relevance to This Case
49 CFR § 392.2 “No commercial motor vehicle shall be driven… except in accordance with the laws, ordinances, and regulations of the jurisdiction in which it is being operated.” The driver violated Texas traffic laws by failing to yield to pedestrians.
49 CFR § 392.14 “Extreme caution in the operation of a commercial motor vehicle shall be exercised when hazardous conditions… exist.” Pedestrian crossings are inherently hazardous—drivers must exercise extreme caution.
49 CFR § 392.9 “A driver shall be deemed to be driving a commercial motor vehicle while his/her attention is diverted by… any other activity which distracts his/her attention from the operation of the vehicle.” If the driver was distracted (cell phone, dispatch radio, etc.), this regulation was violated.
49 CFR § 391.11 Driver Qualification Standards If the driver had a history of traffic violations or lacked proper training, the trucking company may be liable for negligent hiring.

Negligence Per Se:

When a driver violates a traffic law and causes an accident, Texas courts apply the doctrine of negligence per se. This means the violation itself is considered evidence of negligence—no further proof is needed. In Stephanie Madzy’s case, the driver’s failure to yield to pedestrians establishes negligence as a matter of law.

Who Is Liable for This Tragedy?

In pedestrian accidents involving commercial vehicles, multiple parties may share liability:

1. The Dump Truck Driver

The driver is the most immediate responsible party. Potential violations include:
– Failure to yield the right of way to pedestrians
– Distracted driving
– Fatigued driving (if hours of service violations occurred)
– Improper pre-trip inspection (if vehicle defects contributed)

Criminal Liability:
The driver was charged with criminally negligent homicide—a state jail felony in Texas. This charge applies when a person causes a death through criminal negligence, meaning they failed to perceive a substantial and unjustifiable risk that their actions would result in death.

2. The Trucking Company / Motor Carrier

Trucking companies can be held vicariously liable for their drivers’ actions under the doctrine of respondeat superior (“let the master answer”). They can also be directly liable for:

  • Negligent Hiring: Failing to properly vet the driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications.
  • Negligent Training: Not providing adequate safety training on pedestrian awareness and right-of-way rules.
  • Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor the driver’s compliance with safety regulations.
  • Negligent Maintenance: If vehicle defects (brakes, mirrors, lighting) contributed to the accident.
  • Pressure to Violate Hours of Service: If dispatchers pressured the driver to meet unrealistic schedules.

FMCSA Compliance:
Trucking companies must maintain Driver Qualification Files for every driver, including:
– Employment application
– Motor vehicle record (MVR)
– Road test certificate
– Medical examiner’s certificate
– Previous employer inquiries
– Drug and alcohol test results

If the company failed to maintain these records or ignored red flags in the driver’s history, they may be liable for negligent hiring.

3. The Truck Owner (If Different from the Carrier)

In some cases, the truck may be owned by a separate entity (e.g., an owner-operator leasing to a carrier). The owner may share liability for:
– Negligent maintenance
– Allowing an unqualified driver to operate the vehicle

4. Maintenance Companies

If a third-party maintenance company serviced the truck, they could be liable for:
– Negligent repairs
– Failure to identify and fix safety defects
– Using substandard parts

5. Government Entities (Limited Liability)

In rare cases, government entities may share liability if:
– Poor road design contributed to the accident
– Inadequate signage or crosswalk markings created confusion
– Traffic signals malfunctioned

However, government liability is limited by sovereign immunity, and claims must be filed within strict deadlines.

6. Manufacturers (If Defects Contributed)

If a vehicle defect (e.g., brake failure, mirror design, lighting system) contributed to the accident, the manufacturer could be liable under product liability laws.

The Investigation: What Evidence Must Be Preserved

In dump truck accident cases, evidence disappears quickly. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours. If you’re involved in a similar accident, time is critical.

Critical Evidence in This Case:

Evidence Type What It Shows Preservation Window
ECM/Black Box Data Speed, brake application, throttle position, following distance 30 days (can be overwritten)
ELD (Electronic Logging Device) Data Hours of service, driving time, rest breaks 6 months (FMCSA requirement)
Dashcam Footage Video of the accident, driver behavior 7-30 days (often overwritten)
Driver Qualification File Hiring practices, training records, driving history 3 years (FMCSA requirement)
Maintenance Records Vehicle condition, repair history, known defects 1 year (FMCSA requirement)
Dispatch Records Trip schedules, communication with driver Varies (often 6 months)
Cell Phone Records Distracted driving evidence Requires subpoena
Witness Statements Independent accounts of what happened Memories fade quickly
Police Report Official documentation of the accident Permanent (but may take weeks)
Photographs Vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks Should be taken immediately

Spoliation Letters:
At Attorney911, we send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained. These legal notices demand that all parties preserve evidence related to the accident. Destroying evidence after receiving a spoliation letter can result in:
– Court sanctions
– Adverse inference instructions (jury told to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable)
– Default judgment in extreme cases

What the Spoliation Letter in This Case Should Demand:
– Immediate download of ECM/black box data
– Preservation of ELD records
– Retention of dashcam footage
– Driver Qualification File
– Maintenance and inspection records
– Drug and alcohol test results
– Cell phone records
– The physical truck and trailer

The Human Cost: Why This Case Matters for New Braunfels Families

Stephanie Madzy wasn’t just a statistic. She was a 60-year-old woman with a family, a life, and a future that was cut short in an instant. When a dump truck fails to yield to a pedestrian, the consequences are devastating:

  • Wrongful Death: Families lose a loved one, often the primary breadwinner or caregiver.
  • Catastrophic Injuries: Survivors may face traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, or permanent disabilities.
  • Emotional Trauma: PTSD, depression, and anxiety are common after such accidents.
  • Financial Ruin: Medical bills, funeral costs, and lost income can overwhelm families.

Pedestrian Accident Statistics in Texas:
– Texas consistently ranks among the worst states for pedestrian fatalities.
– In 2022, Texas had 834 pedestrian fatalities—the second-highest in the nation.
– Pedestrian deaths in Texas increased by 15% from 2020 to 2022.
Comal County has seen its share of pedestrian accidents, with several fatalities and serious injuries in recent years.

New Braunfels-Specific Risks:
New Braunfels is a growing community with unique pedestrian risks:
Historic Downtown: Narrow streets, heavy foot traffic, and limited crosswalks create dangerous conditions.
Commercial Corridors: Areas like North Seguin Avenue, Loop 337, and I-35 frontage roads see heavy truck traffic mixed with pedestrians.
School Zones: Children walking to school are especially vulnerable near bus stops and crosswalks.
Construction Zones: Dump trucks and other heavy vehicles frequent construction sites, increasing risks.
Tourist Areas: Popular destinations like Gruene Historic District and Landa Park attract pedestrians who may not be familiar with local traffic patterns.

What Families Can Do: Wrongful Death Claims in Texas

Stephanie Madzy’s family may be entitled to a wrongful death claim under Texas law. Wrongful death claims allow surviving family members to seek compensation when a loved one is killed due to another’s negligence.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas?

Texas law limits wrongful death claims to:
– Surviving spouse
– Children (including adult children)
– Parents

If none of these relatives file within three months of the death, the deceased’s estate may bring the claim.

Damages Available in Wrongful Death Cases:

Damage Type What’s Included
Economic Damages Lost future income, benefits, and inheritance
Non-Economic Damages Loss of companionship, love, and emotional support
Mental Anguish Emotional pain and suffering of survivors
Funeral and Burial Expenses Reasonable costs of final arrangements
Medical Expenses Costs incurred before death
Punitive Damages If gross negligence or willful misconduct is proven

Texas Statute of Limitations:
2 years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
Do not wait. Evidence disappears, and memories fade. The sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.

Why Wrongful Death Cases Are Different from Criminal Cases

The driver in this case faces criminal charges for criminally negligent homicide. But criminal cases are about punishment, not compensation. A wrongful death lawsuit is a civil case focused on holding the responsible parties financially accountable and providing compensation to the family.

Key Differences:

Aspect Criminal Case Wrongful Death Lawsuit
Purpose Punish the defendant Compensate the family
Burden of Proof Beyond a reasonable doubt Preponderance of the evidence (more likely than not)
Outcome Jail time, fines, probation Financial compensation
Control Prosecutor decides whether to pursue Family controls the case
Compensation None for family Economic and non-economic damages

Both cases can proceed simultaneously. The criminal case doesn’t prevent the family from filing a civil lawsuit.

How Trucking Companies Try to Avoid Responsibility

Trucking companies and their insurers have teams of lawyers working to minimize payouts. They use several tactics to avoid responsibility:

1. Quick Lowball Settlement Offers

Insurance adjusters often contact families within days of an accident with a quick settlement offer. These offers are almost always far below what the case is worth.

Why they do it:
– Families are grieving and may accept out of desperation.
– The full extent of damages (medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering) isn’t known yet.
– They want to close the case before the family hires an attorney.

What families should do:
Never accept a settlement without consulting an attorney.
Never sign anything without legal review.
Never give a recorded statement to an insurance adjuster.

2. Blaming the Victim

Insurance companies may argue that the pedestrian was at fault by:
– Crossing outside a crosswalk
– Wearing dark clothing at night
– Being distracted (e.g., using a phone)
– Jaywalking

Texas Comparative Negligence Rule:
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system. If the victim is found to be 50% or less at fault, they can still recover damages—but the award is reduced by their percentage of fault. If the victim is more than 50% at fault, they cannot recover anything.

In Stephanie Madzy’s case:
The fact that the driver was charged with criminally negligent homicide strongly suggests the pedestrian was not at fault. However, the trucking company’s insurer may still try to shift blame to avoid full liability.

3. Destroying or Hiding Evidence

Trucking companies may:
– Overwrite black box data
– Delete dashcam footage
– “Lose” maintenance records
– Pressure drivers to change their stories

This is why spoliation letters are critical. Once we send a preservation demand, destroying evidence becomes a serious legal violation.

4. Arguing “Pre-Existing Conditions”

If the victim had prior injuries or health conditions, insurers may argue those—not the accident—caused their damages.

Texas “Eggshell Skull” Rule:
Under Texas law, defendants must “take their victims as they find them.” If a victim had a pre-existing condition that made their injuries worse, the defendant is still fully liable.

5. Delaying the Claims Process

Insurance companies know that financial pressure can force families to accept low settlements. They may:
– Delay processing claims
– Request unnecessary documentation
– Dispute medical bills
– Offer “advances” that are really loans against the settlement

What families should do:
Hire an attorney early. We handle all communication with the insurance company.
Keep detailed records of all expenses and communications.
Be patient. Rushing to settle often means accepting less than you deserve.

Real Cases Show What’s Possible: Precedent for Justice

While every case is unique, landmark verdicts and settlements demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:

1. $462 Million Underride Verdict (2024, Missouri)

In a case with eerie similarities to pedestrian accidents, a Missouri jury awarded $462 million to the families of two men who were decapitated in an underride crash. The verdict included $412 million in punitive damages against the trucking company and trailer manufacturer. The jury found that the companies knew about the underride risk but failed to install proper guards.

Why it matters for New Braunfels:
This case shows that juries will hold trucking companies accountable when they prioritize profits over safety. The massive punitive award sends a message that cutting corners has consequences.

2. $1 Billion Florida Verdict (2021)

A Florida jury awarded $1 billion to the family of an 18-year-old killed in a trucking accident. The case involved negligent hiring—the trucking company hired a driver with a history of traffic violations and failed to properly train him. The verdict included $100 million in compensatory damages and $900 million in punitive damages.

Why it matters for New Braunfels:
Negligent hiring is a major issue in the trucking industry. If the dump truck company in Stephanie Madzy’s case failed to properly vet their driver, they could face similar liability.

3. $150 Million Texas Settlement (2022)

In the largest 18-wheeler settlement in U.S. history, a Texas family received $150 million after two children were killed in a crash on I-30. The trucking company, Werner Enterprises, settled before trial. The case involved hours of service violations and negligent supervision.

Why it matters for New Braunfels:
This case shows that Texas juries—and trucking companies—know the value of human life. When companies settle for nine figures, it’s because they know a jury could award even more.

4. $730 Million Texas Verdict (2021)

In Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger, a Texas jury awarded $730 million to the family of a woman killed by an oversize load. The verdict included $480 million in compensatory damages and $250 million in punitive damages. The case involved gross negligence in securing the load and failure to follow safety protocols.

Why it matters for New Braunfels:
This case demonstrates that Texas juries will award nuclear verdicts when trucking companies act with reckless disregard for safety. The punitive damages were designed to punish the company and deter future misconduct.

5. $160 Million Alabama Verdict (2024)

In Street v. Daimler, an Alabama jury awarded $160 million to a man left quadriplegic after a rollover accident. The verdict included $75 million in compensatory damages and $75 million in punitive damages. The jury found that the truck manufacturer knew about a defect that caused the rollover but failed to warn drivers.

Why it matters for New Braunfels:
While this case involved a manufacturing defect, it shows that juries will hold companies accountable when they know about dangers but fail to act.

What New Braunfels Families Should Do After a Pedestrian Accident

If you or a loved one is involved in a pedestrian accident with a commercial vehicle, time is critical. Here’s what to do:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

  • Even if injuries seem minor, get checked out. Adrenaline masks pain, and some injuries (TBI, internal bleeding) may not show symptoms immediately.
  • New Braunfels Medical Facilities:
  • Resolute Health Hospital (New Braunfels)
  • Christus Santa Rosa Hospital – New Braunfels
  • University Hospital (San Antonio) – Level I Trauma Center

2. Document Everything

  • Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions.
  • Get the truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company name.
  • Collect witness contact information.
  • Never rely on the police report alone. Your own documentation is critical.

3. Do NOT Talk to Insurance Adjusters

  • Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you.
  • Never give a recorded statement.
  • Never sign anything without legal review.
  • Never accept a settlement offer without consulting an attorney.

4. Preserve Evidence

  • If you’re physically able, take photos and videos at the scene.
  • Keep all medical records and bills.
  • Save clothing and shoes worn during the accident (they may be evidence).
  • Do not repair or dispose of any damaged property.

5. Contact an Attorney Immediately

  • Critical evidence (black box data, dashcam footage) can be destroyed within days.
  • We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve evidence.
  • The sooner we start investigating, the stronger your case will be.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your New Braunfels Trucking Accident Case

At Attorney911, we don’t just handle trucking accident cases—we specialize in them. With over 25 years of experience, our team has recovered millions of dollars for families devastated by commercial vehicle accidents. Here’s what sets us apart:

1. Insider Knowledge of the Trucking Industry

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm before joining Attorney911. He knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers evaluate, minimize, and deny claims. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for victims.

What this means for your case:
– We know every tactic the trucking company will use against you.
– We counter their strategies before they’re deployed.
– We know how to maximize your recovery.

2. Federal Court Experience

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This is critical for trucking cases, which often involve:
– Interstate commerce
– Federal regulations (FMCSA)
– Multiple defendants across state lines

3. Proven Track Record of Results

We’ve secured multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for trucking accident victims, including:
$5+ Million for a traumatic brain injury caused by a falling log at a logging company
$3.8+ Million for a car accident victim who suffered a partial leg amputation due to medical complications
$2.5+ Million for a truck crash recovery
Millions recovered for families in wrongful death cases

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. His experience includes:
– Litigating against Fortune 500 trucking companies (Walmart, Amazon, FedEx, UPS, Coca-Cola)
– Handling complex industrial disaster cases (including BP Texas City explosion litigation)
– Securing nuclear verdicts in catastrophic injury cases

4. Aggressive Evidence Preservation

We don’t wait for evidence to disappear. Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we:
– Send spoliation letters to all potentially liable parties
– Demand immediate download of ECM/black box data
– Subpoena ELD records, maintenance logs, and driver qualification files
– Secure dashcam footage before it’s deleted
– Hire accident reconstruction experts to document the scene

5. Comprehensive Investigation

We leave no stone unturned. Our investigation includes:
Driver Qualification File Review: Was the driver properly vetted? Did the company ignore red flags?
Hours of Service Analysis: Was the driver fatigued? Did they violate FMCSA regulations?
Maintenance Records: Were there known defects? Was maintenance deferred?
Cell Phone Records: Was the driver distracted?
Accident Reconstruction: What exactly happened? Who was at fault?
Witness Interviews: What did independent witnesses see?

6. No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. This means:
– No upfront costs
– No hourly fees
– No risk to you
– We advance all costs of investigation and litigation

7. Compassionate, Personalized Representation

We treat every client like family. Our team includes Spanish-speaking attorneys and staff, ensuring that language barriers don’t prevent you from getting the justice you deserve.

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

The Attorney911 Difference: Fighting for New Braunfels Families

When you’re up against a trucking company, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a fighter. Here’s how we approach every case:

1. We Prepare Every Case for Trial

Most cases settle, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This creates leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready if the case goes to court.

Why this matters:
– Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to trial.
– They offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys.
– We have the resources and experience to take your case all the way.

2. We Identify ALL Liable Parties

In trucking cases, multiple parties may share liability. We investigate every angle to ensure you can recover from all responsible parties, including:
– The driver
– The trucking company
– The truck owner (if different from the carrier)
– Maintenance companies
– Cargo loaders
– Manufacturers
– Freight brokers
– Government entities

3. We Maximize Your Recovery

We don’t just settle for what the insurance company offers. We calculate the full value of your case, including:
– Past and future medical expenses
– Lost wages and earning capacity
– Pain and suffering
– Mental anguish
– Loss of companionship
– Punitive damages (when applicable)

4. We Handle All Communication with Insurance Companies

You focus on healing. We handle:
– All calls and letters from insurance adjusters
– Settlement negotiations
– Demand letters
– Litigation (if necessary)

5. We Offer 24/7 Availability

Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule. Neither do we. You can reach us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-888-ATTY-911.

What to Expect When You Call Attorney911

When you contact our office, here’s what happens:

1. Free, No-Obligation Consultation

  • We listen to your story.
  • We answer your questions.
  • We explain your legal options.
  • No pressure, no obligation.

2. Immediate Evidence Preservation

  • We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours.
  • We demand preservation of all critical evidence.
  • We begin our investigation immediately.

3. Comprehensive Case Evaluation

  • We review police reports, medical records, and witness statements.
  • We identify all potentially liable parties.
  • We calculate the full value of your case.

4. Aggressive Negotiation

  • We send a demand letter to the insurance company.
  • We negotiate from a position of strength.
  • We reject lowball offers.

5. Litigation (If Necessary)

  • We file a lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires.
  • We conduct discovery (depositions, document requests).
  • We prepare for trial.

6. Resolution

  • Most cases settle before trial.
  • If necessary, we take your case to court.
  • We fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

The Time to Act Is Now

In trucking accident cases, evidence disappears fast. Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. The trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests—you need someone protecting yours.

New Braunfels families have rights. You deserve justice. You deserve compensation. You deserve a fighter on your side.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident—or if you’ve lost someone in a crash like Stephanie Madzy’s—call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. Our New Braunfels trucking accident attorneys are ready to fight for you.

Frequently Asked Questions About New Braunfels Pedestrian and Trucking Accidents

1. What should I do immediately after a pedestrian accident with a dump truck?

If you’re able, take these steps:
– Call 911 and report the accident.
– Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor.
– Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions.
– Get the truck’s license plate, DOT number, and company name.
– Collect witness contact information.
Do not talk to insurance adjusters or give recorded statements.
– Contact an attorney immediately to preserve evidence.

2. Who can be held liable in a dump truck accident?

Multiple parties may share liability, including:
– The dump truck driver
– The trucking company (motor carrier)
– The truck owner (if different from the carrier)
– Maintenance companies
– Cargo loaders
– Manufacturers (if vehicle defects contributed)
– Government entities (if road design or signage contributed)

3. What is a spoliation letter, and why is it important?

A spoliation letter is a legal notice demanding that all parties preserve evidence related to the accident. This includes:
– ECM/black box data
– ELD records
– Dashcam footage
– Maintenance records
– Driver qualification files

Why it’s important: Destroying evidence after receiving a spoliation letter can result in court sanctions, adverse inferences, or even default judgment.

4. How long do I have to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Texas?

Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for wrongful death claims. This means you have two years from the date of death to file a lawsuit. However, you should not wait. Evidence disappears, and memories fade. The sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.

5. What damages can I recover in a wrongful death case?

Damages may include:
– Lost future income and benefits
– Loss of companionship and emotional support
– Mental anguish and emotional suffering
– Funeral and burial expenses
– Medical expenses incurred before death
– Punitive damages (if gross negligence is proven)

6. What if the trucking company offers me a settlement?

Do not accept any settlement without consulting an attorney. Insurance companies often make lowball offers soon after an accident, before the full extent of damages is known. Once you accept a settlement, you waive your right to additional compensation.

7. What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you were 50% or less at fault, you can still recover damages—but your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you were more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover anything.

8. How much is my case worth?

Every case is unique. Factors that affect case value include:
– Severity of injuries
– Medical expenses (past and future)
– Lost wages and earning capacity
– Pain and suffering
– Degree of defendant’s negligence
– Available insurance coverage

Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million or more), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents.

9. How long will my case take?

Timelines vary:
– Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
– Complex cases with multiple parties: 1-3 years
– Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

10. Do I need an attorney for a trucking accident case?

Yes. Trucking accident cases are complex and involve:
– Multiple liable parties
– Federal regulations (FMCSA)
– High-stakes insurance policies
– Aggressive defense tactics

Insurance companies have teams of lawyers working to minimize your claim. You need someone fighting for you.

New Braunfels: A Community at Risk

New Braunfels is a vibrant, growing community with a rich history and a bright future. But that future is at risk when commercial vehicles share our streets with pedestrians, cyclists, and families.

The dangers are real:
North Seguin Avenue is a busy commercial corridor with heavy truck traffic.
Loop 337 sees dump trucks, 18-wheelers, and construction vehicles daily.
I-35 frontage roads mix local traffic with through trucks.
Downtown New Braunfels has narrow streets and limited crosswalks.
School zones put children at risk from distracted or fatigued drivers.

The solutions exist:
Better crosswalk design with pedestrian islands and advanced warning signals.
Truck routes that keep commercial vehicles away from pedestrian-heavy areas.
Stricter enforcement of right-of-way laws and hours of service regulations.
Public awareness campaigns to educate both drivers and pedestrians.
Accountability for trucking companies that cut corners on safety.

At Attorney911, we’re committed to making New Braunfels safer. When accidents happen, we hold negligent parties accountable. When families suffer, we fight for justice.

The Bottom Line: You Deserve Justice

Stephanie Madzy’s death was preventable. It happened because a dump truck driver failed to follow one of the most basic rules of the road: yield to pedestrians. Now, her family faces a lifetime of grief and financial uncertainty.

If you’re in a similar situation—if you’ve lost a loved one or suffered catastrophic injuries in a trucking accident—you don’t have to face this alone. The trucking company has lawyers. The insurance company has adjusters. You need someone on your side.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for injury victims for over 25 years. We know the trucking industry’s tactics. We know how to preserve evidence. We know how to maximize your recovery. And we know how to hold negligent parties accountable.

This is what we do:
– We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours.
– We preserve critical evidence before it’s destroyed.
– We identify all liable parties.
– We calculate the full value of your case.
– We negotiate aggressively with insurance companies.
– We take your case to trial if necessary.
– We fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

You pay nothing unless we win. We work on a contingency fee basis—no upfront costs, no hourly fees, no risk to you.

Take Action Now

Every hour you wait, evidence in your case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget what they saw. The trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests—you need someone protecting yours.

New Braunfels families have rights. You deserve justice. You deserve compensation. You deserve a fighter on your side.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident—or if you’ve lost someone in a crash like Stephanie Madzy’s—call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. Our New Braunfels trucking accident attorneys are ready to fight for you.

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

The time to act is now. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for your free consultation.

We answer 24/7. We fight for you. We win.

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