Tragedy on TX-158: Edgar Barraza’s Fatal Collision with an 18-Wheeler Near Garden City
A Life Cut Short on Glasscock County’s Highways
The Texas sun was setting on February 20, 2026, casting long shadows across the flat expanse of central Glasscock County. Edgar Abdon Barraza, a 28-year-old man from Midland, was driving his Chevy Silverado northwest on TX-158 near mile marker 314 – just 30 miles southeast of Midland. For reasons still unknown, his pickup collided with the rear of an 18-wheeler traveling in the same direction.
In an instant, Edgar’s life was over. He died at the scene.
The truck driver, a 56-year-old man whose identity hasn’t been released, was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries. TX-158 faced delays as emergency crews worked to clear the scene and attend to the victims.
This wasn’t just another traffic accident. This was a catastrophic collision between a 4,000-pound pickup and an 80,000-pound commercial vehicle – a disparity in size and force that too often results in tragedy. For Edgar Barraza’s family, February 20th became the day their world changed forever.
The Dangers of TX-158: A Corridor of Risk
While this tragedy occurred in Glasscock County, the same dangers exist on Allen County’s highways. TX-158 may be hundreds of miles away, but the risks are identical on corridors like US-380, SH-114, and the rural routes that crisscross our region.
This stretch of road is part of what transportation experts call a “high-risk freight corridor” – a route that sees heavy truck traffic serving the Permian Basin’s oil and gas industry. The combination of commercial vehicles, rural road conditions, and driver fatigue creates a perfect storm for catastrophic accidents.
Why Rear-End Collisions with 18-Wheelers Are So Deadly
Rear-end collisions involving commercial trucks are among the most dangerous accidents on our roads. Here’s why:
- Stopping Distance: An 18-wheeler traveling at 65 mph needs approximately 525 feet to come to a complete stop – nearly two football fields. A passenger vehicle needs only about 300 feet.
- Size and Weight Disparity: A fully loaded truck can weigh 20-25 times more than a passenger vehicle. When a truck strikes a car from behind, the force is catastrophic.
- Underride Risk: In rear-end collisions, smaller vehicles can slide underneath the trailer, shearing off the roof and causing decapitation or severe head trauma.
- Cargo Shift: If the truck’s cargo isn’t properly secured, the impact can cause it to shift forward, increasing the force of the collision.
In Edgar Barraza’s case, his Chevy Silverado was no match for the commercial vehicle that struck it. The physics of the collision meant that even if he had survived the initial impact, his injuries would likely have been catastrophic.
The Investigation: What Happened on TX-158?
The Texas Department of Public Safety is leading the investigation into this fatal collision. While the exact cause remains unknown, experienced trucking accident attorneys know what to look for in cases like this.
Potential Causes of Rear-End Truck Collisions
| Cause | How It Applies to This Case |
|---|---|
| Driver Fatigue | The truck driver may have been on the road for too many hours without proper rest. FMCSA hours-of-service regulations limit drivers to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty. |
| Distracted Driving | The driver may have been using a cell phone, adjusting the radio, or distracted by dispatch communications. 49 CFR § 392.82 prohibits hand-held mobile phone use while driving. |
| Following Too Closely | Commercial trucks must maintain a safe following distance. 49 CFR § 392.11 requires drivers to maintain a safe distance considering speed, traffic, and road conditions. |
| Brake Failure | Poorly maintained brakes can prevent a truck from stopping in time. 49 CFR § 393.40-55 establishes strict brake system requirements. |
| Speeding | Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases stopping distance. 49 CFR § 392.6 prohibits driving at speeds greater than what’s reasonable for conditions. |
| Improper Lane Changes | The truck may have changed lanes without proper mirror checks, cutting off Edgar’s vehicle. |
| Equipment Failure | Tire blowouts, steering failures, or other mechanical issues could have caused loss of control. |
| Driver Impairment | Drugs or alcohol may have affected the driver’s ability to operate the vehicle safely. 49 CFR § 392.4 prohibits driving under the influence. |
The Critical Evidence We Would Pursue
In a case like this, evidence disappears quickly. Our firm would immediately send spoliation letters to preserve:
- Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Data – Proves hours of service compliance and can show fatigue violations
- Engine Control Module (ECM) Data – Records speed, braking, and throttle position before impact
- Driver Qualification File – Documents hiring practices, training, and safety record
- Maintenance Records – Shows whether the truck was properly maintained
- Cell Phone Records – Proves whether the driver was distracted
- Dashcam Footage – May show the moments leading up to the collision
- Drug and Alcohol Test Results – Determines if impairment was a factor
- Cargo Securement Records – Shows whether shifting cargo contributed to the accident
This evidence can prove negligence and establish liability – but only if it’s preserved. Trucking companies have been known to destroy or “lose” critical evidence when they know litigation is coming.
Who Is Responsible for Edgar Barraza’s Death?
In trucking accident cases, multiple parties can share liability. This wasn’t just a collision between two vehicles – it was a failure of an entire system designed to keep our roads safe.
Potential Liable Parties in This Case
| Party | Potential Liability |
|---|---|
| The Truck Driver | Direct negligence: speeding, distraction, fatigue, impairment, or failure to maintain proper following distance |
| The Trucking Company | Vicarious liability for the driver’s actions, negligent hiring, inadequate training, pressure to violate hours-of-service regulations, or failure to maintain the vehicle |
| The Truck Owner | If different from the carrier, may be liable for negligent entrustment of the vehicle |
| Maintenance Company | If a third party performed maintenance, may be liable for brake failures or other mechanical issues |
| Cargo Loading Company | If improperly secured cargo contributed to the accident |
| Truck Manufacturer | If a defect in the truck or trailer contributed to the collision |
| Parts Manufacturer | If a defective component (brakes, tires, etc.) failed |
| Government Entity | If poor road design or maintenance contributed to the accident |
The Trucking Company’s Responsibility
The trucking company bears significant responsibility in cases like this. Under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for their employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment.
Additionally, trucking companies can be directly liable for:
- Negligent Hiring: Failing to properly vet the driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications
- Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training or failure to train on hours-of-service regulations
- Negligent Supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance or compliance with safety regulations
- Negligent Maintenance: Deferring critical repairs or failing to conduct required inspections
- Pressure to Violate Regulations: Creating incentives that encourage drivers to violate hours-of-service rules
Every trucking company is required to maintain a Driver Qualification File for each driver, containing:
- Employment application
- Motor vehicle record
- Road test certificate
- Medical examiner’s certificate
- Previous employer verification
- Drug and alcohol test results
If this file is incomplete or shows a pattern of safety violations, it can prove negligent hiring – a powerful claim in wrongful death cases.
The Legal Rights of Edgar Barraza’s Family
Edgar Barraza’s death leaves behind grieving family members who may be entitled to compensation through a wrongful death claim. In Texas, wrongful death actions can be brought by:
- Surviving spouse
- Children (minor and adult)
- Parents
Types of Damages Available
| Category | What It Covers |
|---|---|
| Economic Damages | Lost future income and benefits Edgar would have provided, funeral and burial expenses, medical expenses incurred before death |
| Non-Economic Damages | Loss of companionship, care, and guidance Edgar provided, mental anguish and emotional suffering of survivors |
| Punitive Damages | If gross negligence or willful misconduct is proven, to punish the wrongdoer and deter future misconduct |
The Statute of Limitations
Texas law gives families two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. This deadline is strict – miss it, and you lose your right to seek justice forever.
However, families should not wait. Critical evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner an attorney is involved, the better the chances of preserving evidence and building a strong case.
Why These Accidents Keep Happening
Trucking accidents like the one that killed Edgar Barraza don’t happen in a vacuum. They’re the result of systemic issues in the trucking industry – issues that put profits over safety.
The Root Causes of Fatal Truck Crashes
-
Driver Fatigue
– FMCSA estimates that fatigue is a factor in 13% of large truck crashes
– Despite hours-of-service regulations, drivers face pressure to meet tight deadlines
– Many drivers work second jobs or have sleep disorders that go undiagnosed -
Inadequate Training
– Entry-level driver training requirements were only strengthened in 2022
– Many drivers receive minimal training on safety procedures
– Companies often prioritize getting drivers on the road over proper training -
Maintenance Neglect
– Brake violations are among the most common FMCSA out-of-service violations
– Companies defer maintenance to save costs
– Drivers often ignore pre-trip inspection requirements -
Distracted Driving
– Cell phone use is rampant despite federal prohibitions
– Dispatch systems require constant communication while driving
– In-cab technology creates additional distractions -
Pressure to Violate Regulations
– Companies create incentives that encourage drivers to violate hours-of-service rules
– “On-time delivery” bonuses reward speeding and fatigue
– Drivers who refuse to violate regulations are often penalized or fired -
Inadequate Oversight
– FMCSA’s Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) program is underfunded
– Many carriers operate with “satisfactory” safety ratings despite patterns of violations
– Enforcement actions are often too little, too late
The Human Cost
Behind every trucking accident statistic is a human story:
- The 28-year-old with his whole life ahead of him
- The grieving parents who will never see their son again
- The siblings who lost their brother
- The friends who lost a companion
Edgar Barraza wasn’t just a statistic. He was someone’s son, someone’s friend, someone whose life mattered. His death leaves a void that can never be filled.
What This Case Means for Allen County Drivers
While this tragedy occurred in Glasscock County, the same dangers exist right here in Allen County. Our region’s highways see heavy truck traffic serving:
- The oil and gas industry
- Agricultural operations
- Manufacturing facilities
- Distribution centers
Corridors like US-380, SH-114, and FM 544 carry significant commercial vehicle traffic. The risks that led to Edgar Barraza’s death are present on our roads every day.
The Trucking Corridors of Allen County
| Route | Truck Traffic | Key Risks |
|---|---|---|
| US-380 | High | Rural two-lane sections, heavy oil field traffic, limited shoulders |
| SH-114 | High | Connects to major distribution centers, high-speed sections |
| FM 544 | Moderate | Agricultural truck traffic, rural intersections |
| I-35 | Very High | Major north-south freight corridor, high-speed traffic |
| US-75 | High | Urban sections with heavy commuter traffic mixing with trucks |
How to Protect Yourself on Allen County Roads
-
Be Extra Cautious Around Trucks
– Remember the “No-Zones” – the blind spots around trucks where drivers can’t see you
– If you can’t see the truck’s mirrors, the driver can’t see you -
Maintain a Safe Following Distance
– Never tailgate a truck – you won’t be able to see what’s ahead
– If a truck is tailgating you, change lanes when safe -
Pass Safely
– Never pass a truck on the right
– Make sure you can see the entire cab in your rearview mirror before pulling back in
– Don’t linger in the truck’s blind spot -
Be Visible
– Use your headlights, especially in low visibility conditions
– Avoid driving in a truck’s blind spots for extended periods -
Watch for Wide Turns
– Trucks need extra space to turn
– Never try to squeeze between a turning truck and the curb -
Report Unsafe Trucks
– If you see a truck with obvious safety issues (smoking brakes, loose cargo, etc.), report it to TxDOT
– Note the license plate, DOT number, and location
The Legal Battle Ahead: What Edgar Barraza’s Family Faces
If Edgar’s family chooses to pursue legal action, they’ll face a formidable opponent: the trucking company and its insurance carrier. These companies have teams of lawyers and adjusters whose sole job is to minimize payouts.
The Trucking Company’s Playbook
When a fatal accident occurs, trucking companies typically:
-
Send Rapid-Response Teams
– Investigators arrive at the scene within hours
– They collect evidence to protect the company’s interests
– They interview witnesses before the family even knows what happened -
Destroy or Hide Evidence
– ECM data can be overwritten
– Dashcam footage can be deleted
– Maintenance records can “disappear” -
Blame the Victim
– Claim the deceased driver was at fault
– Argue that the victim “came out of nowhere”
– Suggest the victim was distracted or impaired -
Lowball Settlement Offers
– Make quick, low offers before the family understands the full extent of damages
– Pressure the family to accept before they consult an attorney -
Delay and Deny
– Drag out the claims process for years
– Deny valid claims based on technicalities
– Hope the family gives up or accepts a fraction of what they deserve
Why Families Need an Experienced Trucking Accident Attorney
Fighting a trucking company alone is like bringing a knife to a gunfight. Families need an attorney who:
- Understands FMCSA regulations inside and out
- Knows how to preserve critical evidence
- Has experience taking on major trucking companies
- Can level the playing field against corporate legal teams
- Is willing to go to trial if necessary
At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting trucking companies for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes.
The Role of FMCSA Regulations in This Case
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates every aspect of commercial trucking. These regulations exist to prevent exactly the kind of tragedy that killed Edgar Barraza.
Key FMCSA Regulations That May Apply
| Regulation | What It Requires | Potential Violation in This Case |
|---|---|---|
| 49 CFR § 395.3 – Hours of Service | Limits driving to 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty | Driver may have been fatigued from exceeding limits |
| 49 CFR § 392.3 – Ill or Fatigued Operator | Prohibits driving while fatigued | Driver may have been too tired to react safely |
| 49 CFR § 392.11 – Following Too Closely | Requires maintaining safe following distance | Driver may have been tailgating Edgar’s vehicle |
| 49 CFR § 393.40-55 – Brake Systems | Requires properly functioning brakes | Brake failure may have prevented stopping in time |
| 49 CFR § 392.82 – Mobile Phone Use | Prohibits hand-held phone use while driving | Driver may have been distracted by phone |
| 49 CFR § 391.11 – Driver Qualifications | Requires proper licensing and medical certification | Driver may have been unqualified to operate the vehicle |
| 49 CFR § 396.3 – Inspection and Maintenance | Requires systematic vehicle inspections | Poor maintenance may have contributed to the accident |
How FMCSA Violations Strengthen a Wrongful Death Case
When trucking companies violate FMCSA regulations, it creates powerful legal arguments:
- Negligence Per Se: Violation of a safety regulation is automatically considered negligence
- Reckless Disregard: Pattern of violations can show willful indifference to safety
- Punitive Damages: Egregious violations can support punitive damage claims
- Corporate Liability: Violations can prove the company’s negligent practices
In cases like Edgar Barraza’s, proving FMCSA violations can be the key to securing full compensation for the family.
Landmark Cases That Set the Standard
While we don’t know the specifics of this case yet, similar trucking accidents have resulted in significant verdicts and settlements. These cases demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held fully accountable.
Relevant Precedent Cases
-
Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger (Texas, 2021) – $730 Million
– A Navy propeller being transported as an oversize load killed a 73-year-old woman
– The case involved multiple defendants and complex liability issues
– Resulted in one of the largest trucking verdicts in U.S. history
– Relevance: Demonstrates the potential value of wrongful death claims against trucking companies -
Werner Enterprises Settlement (Texas, 2022) – $150 Million
– Two children were killed in a collision with a Werner Enterprises truck
– The case involved allegations of driver fatigue and hours-of-service violations
– Resulted in the largest 18-wheeler settlement in U.S. history
– Relevance: Shows how driver fatigue cases can result in massive settlements -
Street v. Daimler (Alabama, 2024) – $160 Million
– A rollover accident left the driver quadriplegic
– The case involved allegations of defective truck design
– Resulted in $75 million in compensatory damages and $75 million in punitive damages
– Relevance: Demonstrates how product liability claims can be combined with negligence claims -
St. Louis Underride Case (Missouri, 2024) – $462 Million
– Two men were decapitated in an underride collision
– The case involved allegations of inadequate underride guards
– Resulted in a massive verdict against the manufacturer
– Relevance: Shows the potential value of rear-end collision cases involving underride -
Florida I-95 Chain Reaction (2021) – $1 Billion
– An 18-year-old was killed in a chain-reaction crash
– The case involved allegations of gross negligence in hiring
– Resulted in $100 million in compensatory damages and $900 million in punitive damages
– Relevance: Demonstrates how punitive damages can be awarded in cases of egregious misconduct
The Nuclear Verdict Trend
These cases are part of a growing trend of “nuclear verdicts” – jury awards exceeding $10 million. The trucking industry has seen:
- Average trucking verdicts increase from $2.3 million in 2010 to $27.5 million in 2023
- The number of verdicts over $10 million increase by 6.4% annually
- Punitive damages awarded in 80% of major trucking cases
Juries are sending a clear message: when trucking companies prioritize profits over safety, they will be held accountable.
What Edgar Barraza’s Family Should Do Now
If you’re reading this and you’re Edgar Barraza’s family member, we extend our deepest condolences. Losing a loved one in a trucking accident is an unimaginable tragedy. Here’s what you should do now to protect your legal rights:
-
Preserve All Evidence
– Keep any photos, videos, or documents related to the accident
– Save all medical records and bills
– Document any communications with insurance companies -
Do Not Speak to Insurance Adjusters
– The trucking company’s insurance adjuster is not your friend
– Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim
– Refer all communications to your attorney -
Consult an Experienced Trucking Accident Attorney Immediately
– Critical evidence is disappearing every day
– The statute of limitations clock is ticking
– You need someone fighting for your interests -
Document Your Losses
– Keep a journal of your emotional state and how the loss has affected you
– Track all expenses related to the accident and funeral
– Document the impact on your family relationships -
Be Patient
– These cases take time to investigate properly
– Don’t accept quick settlement offers
– Wait until you understand the full extent of your damages
How Attorney911 Can Help
At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims for over 25 years. Our team includes:
- Ralph Manginello, our managing partner with 25+ years of experience
- Lupe Peña, our associate attorney and former insurance defense lawyer
- A team of investigators, paralegals, and support staff dedicated to your case
Our Approach to Trucking Cases
-
Immediate Evidence Preservation
– We send spoliation letters within 24 hours
– We demand preservation of ECM, ELD, and maintenance records
– We secure physical evidence before it’s destroyed -
Comprehensive Investigation
– We obtain the trucking company’s safety record
– We subpoena the driver’s qualification file
– We analyze ECM and ELD data
– We reconstruct the accident with expert witnesses -
Aggressive Negotiation
– We calculate the full value of your damages
– We reject lowball settlement offers
– We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial -
Trial-Ready Preparation
– We’re not afraid to take cases to court
– Insurance companies know we’ll fight for maximum compensation
– Our track record of verdicts and settlements speaks for itself
Our Results Speak for Themselves
While every case is unique, our firm has recovered:
- $5+ Million for a logging accident victim with traumatic brain injury
- $3.8+ Million for a car accident victim who required amputation
- $2.5+ Million for truck crash victims
- Millions for families in wrongful death cases
We’ve taken on major trucking companies and won. We know their tactics, and we know how to beat them.
The Time to Act Is Now
If you’ve lost a loved one in a trucking accident, you don’t have to face this alone. The trucking company has lawyers working to protect their interests – you deserve the same level of representation.
Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation.
We’ll:
– Listen to your story
– Explain your legal rights
– Outline your options
– Start preserving evidence immediately
There’s no fee unless we win your case. You pay nothing upfront.
Why Choose Attorney911?
✅ 25+ Years of Experience – Ralph Manginello has been fighting trucking companies since 1998
✅ Former Insurance Defense Attorney – Lupe Peña knows how insurance companies operate
✅ Federal Court Experience – We’re admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
✅ No Fee Unless We Win – You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you
✅ 24/7 Availability – We answer calls immediately, day or night
✅ Hablamos Español – Lupe Peña and our staff provide fluent Spanish-language services
Final Thoughts: Justice for Edgar Barraza
Edgar Barraza’s death was preventable. If the trucking company had followed FMCSA regulations, if the driver had been properly trained, if the truck had been properly maintained – this tragedy might never have happened.
Now, Edgar’s family faces a difficult road ahead. They’ll need to navigate grief, funeral arrangements, and the complex legal process of holding the responsible parties accountable.
At Attorney911, we believe that justice requires more than just compensation – it requires accountability. When trucking companies cut corners and put profits over safety, they must be held responsible for the consequences.
If you’ve lost a loved one in a trucking accident, we’re here to help. Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911 or visit https://attorney911.com to schedule your free consultation.
The trucking company has lawyers. So should you.
If you’ve lost a family member in a trucking accident, call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’re here to fight for you.
Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.
Don’t wait – evidence disappears fast. Call now: (888) 288-9911.
The trucking company has lawyers. You need Attorney911. 1-888-ATTY-911.