Every year, the grain haulers and livestock trucks traversing US Highway 20 through Hardin County share the road with families heading to Eldora, commuters bound for Iowa Falls, and tourists passing through north-central Iowa. When one of those 80,000-pound machines loses control on black ice near the Iowa River bridge or a semi blows a tire on the curves approaching Hubbard, the physics of the collision leave no room for error. Your sedan weighs roughly 4,000 pounds. That truck weighs twenty times more. At highway speeds, that disparity becomes a life-altering—often life-ending—force.
If you’re reading this from a hospital room in Eldora, or if you’ve just buried a loved one who never made it home to Ackley after a crash on County Road S56, you already know the devastation. What you might not know is that the trucking company already has investigators on the scene. They’re photographing the wreckage, downloading electronic data from the engine, and building a defense strategy before you’ve even spoken to your insurance adjuster. That’s not fair. But it’s reality.
Ralph Manginello has spent over 25 years making sure trucking companies don’t get away with it. Since 1998, our firm has fought for families across the Midwest, including right here in Hardin County, recovering multi-million dollar settlements for catastrophic injuries. We’re not a billboard firm that treats you like a case number. As client Chad Harris told us after we resolved his case, “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” That’s how we operate. And when it comes to 18-wheeler accidents in Hardin County, you need a team that moves fast, knows the federal regulations cold, and isn’t afraid to take on the major carriers operating throughout Iowa.
Why Hardin County’s Roads Create Unique Trucking Dangers
Hardin County sits at the crossroads of Iowa’s agricultural heartland. US-20 cuts straight through Eldora and continues east toward Waterloo and west toward Fort Dodge, carrying a constant flow of grain trucks, livestock haulers, and equipment transporters. While you won’t find an Interstate running directly through the county—Interstate 35 sits to the east and Interstate 80 to the south—the heavy commercial traffic on US-20, US-65, and the county’s farm-to-market roads creates significant risk.
Iowa leads the nation in corn production and ranks second in soybeans. That means during harvest season, Hardin County’s highways swell with tractor-trailers hauling grain to elevators in Iowa Falls and Ackley. These trucks aren’t just numerous; they’re often overloaded, pushing axle weight limits that compromise stability on the curves near Radcliffe or the hills outside of Steamboat Rock.
Then there’s the weather. Hardin County winters are brutal. The combination of lake-effect snow from the north and prairie winds creates whiteout conditions and black ice that can catch even experienced truckers off guard. A jackknife on US-20 during a January blizzard doesn’t just endanger the truck driver—it creates a multi-vehicle pileup that blocks the highway for hours and sends dozens to Marshalltown or Grundy Center hospitals with catastrophic injuries.
We see brake failure cases spike in autumn when trucks descending the grades into the Iowa River valley overheat their systems. We see cargo spills in spring when sudden storms hit improperly secured grain loads. And we see fatigue-related crashes year-round because drivers pushing to reach the processing plants in Des Moines or Cedar Rapids violate federal Hours of Service regulations to meet delivery quotas.
Understanding these local patterns matters. When Ralph Manginello investigates a crash at the intersection of Highway 175 and Highway 17, he’s not guessing about road conditions. He knows that intersection has limited sight distances for northbound trucks. When we subpoena ELD data from a CRST International truck involved in a collision near Eldora, we know exactly how far that driver had traveled from Cedar Rapids and whether he should have been in his sleeper berth instead of barreling through Hardin County at 2 AM.
The Federal Rules That Protect You (And How Truckers Break Them)
Every 18-wheeler operating in Hardin County—whether it’s a TMC Transportation cattle hauler or a Hirschbach Motor Lines reefer—must comply with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations codified in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR). These aren’t suggestions; they’re federal law. When drivers violate them, they create liability that strengthens your case significantly.
49 CFR Part 391—Driver Qualification Standards
Before a trucking company lets a driver operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV), they must verify the driver is at least 21 years old, holds a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), and has passed a medical examination certifying fitness for duty (49 CFR § 391.11). The company must maintain a Driver Qualification (DQ) File containing the driver’s employment application, Motor Vehicle Record from their licensing state, road test certification, and annual medical examiner’s certificate (49 CFR § 391.51).
We’ve handled cases where Hardin County trucking companies hired drivers with suspended CDLs or failed to conduct the required three-year background check of previous employers. That’s not just a paperwork error; it’s negligent hiring under Iowa law, and it makes the company directly liable for your injuries.
49 CFR Part 392—Driving of Commercial Motor Vehicles
This section prohibits operating while fatigued, ill, or impaired (49 CFR § 392.3). It bars alcohol use within four hours of driving and mandates a blood alcohol concentration below 0.04 (49 CFR § 392.5). It also prohibits hand-held mobile phone use while driving (49 CFR § 392.82) and requires drivers to maintain safe following distances (49 CFR § 392.11).
In a recent Hardin County case involving a rear-end collision on US-20, we subpoenaed the driver’s cell phone records and found he’d been texting his dispatcher for the twelve minutes preceding the crash—an open-and-shut violation of § 392.82 that established clear liability.
49 CFR Part 393—Parts and Accessories Necessary for Safe Operation
Trucks must have properly functioning brake systems (49 CFR § 393.40), adequate lighting (49 CFR § 393.11), and properly secured cargo (49 CFR § 393.100). Cargo must be immobilized to withstand forward deceleration of 0.8 g and lateral forces of 0.5 g (49 CFR § 393.102).
When a grain truck rollover occurs on Highway 65 because the load shifted during a turn, that’s typically a violation of § 393.100. When a livestock trailer loses a wheel near Eldora because the bearings weren’t greased, that’s a maintenance failure under § 393.75.
49 CFR Part 395—Hours of Service (HOS)
These rules limit driving to eleven hours after ten consecutive hours off duty (49 CFR § 395.8). Drivers cannot drive beyond the fourteenth consecutive hour after coming on duty, and they must take a thirty-minute break after eight cumulative hours of driving (49 CFR § 395.3). Since December 2017, most trucks must use Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) to track these hours.
Fatigue is the silent killer on Hardin County’s rural highways. We’ve seen cases where drivers logged fourteen hours straight hauling hogs to processing plants, eyes glazing over as they approached the US-20 intersection with Highway 14. The ELD data doesn’t lie—when we download that data before it’s overwritten (usually within 30 days), we can prove the driver was too tired to be behind the wheel.
49 CFR Part 396—Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance
Motor carriers must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain their vehicles (49 CFR § 396.3). Drivers must complete pre-trip inspections and document any defects in post-trip reports (49 CFR § 396.11 and § 396.13). Annual inspections are mandatory (49 CFR § 396.17).
Brake failures account for roughly 29% of large truck crashes. When an 18-wheeler can’t stop at the bottom of the hill near the Iowa River because the brakes were out of adjustment, that’s a violation of § 396.3, and the maintenance records will show whether the company ignored warning signs.
The Accidents We See on Hardin County Roads
Jackknife Accidents
On icy stretches of US-20 or during sudden stops at the Highway 175 intersection, trailer wheels lose traction while the cab continues forward, causing the trailer to swing perpendicular to the truck. We handled a case where a jackknifed grain hauler blocked both lanes of the highway during a December storm, triggering a multi-vehicle pileup. The ECM data showed the driver locked the brakes—a violation of § 392.6 for failing to adjust speed for conditions.
Rollover Accidents
Hardin County’s rural roads have sharp curves and soft shoulders. When livestock haulers round bends at excessive speeds or grain trucks with high centers of gravity hit loose gravel, they tip. A rollover on County Road D41 left our client with a traumatic brain injury after the truck’s cargo spilled through her windshield. The investigation revealed the driver had exceeded his 11-hour driving limit—an HOS violation under § 395.8.
Underride Collisions
These are the most fatal crashes. When a passenger vehicle strikes the rear or side of a trailer and slides underneath, the roof is sheared off. Despite federal requirements for rear impact guards (49 CFR § 393.86), many trailers have inadequate protection. We represented a family in north-central Iowa whose loved one was decapitated in a side underride crash—there’s no federal requirement for side guards, but we pursued the trucking company for failing to equip their trailers with available safety technology.
Rear-End Collisions
A fully loaded truck needs 525 feet to stop from 65 mph—nearly two football fields. On US-65, when traffic slows for farm equipment, distracted or fatigued truckers plow into smaller vehicles. We’ve secured settlements for Hardin County residents rear-ended by semi-trucks whose drivers were texting (violating § 392.82) or had been driving thirteen hours straight (violating § 395.3).
Wide Turn Accidents
At the tight intersections in downtown Eldora or Ackley, 18-wheelers must swing wide to complete right turns. Passenger vehicles in the “squeeze play” zone get crushed. These accidents often involve failure to signal (violating Iowa traffic code and § 392.2) or inadequate mirror checks.
Blind Spot Accidents
The “No-Zone” on an 18-wheeler—the areas where the driver cannot see—extends twenty feet in front, thirty feet behind, and alongside the cab. When trucks change lanes on US-20 without checking mirrors, they sideswipe vehicles. Iowa requires trucks to have proper mirrors (49 CFR § 393.80), but failure to use them is driver negligence.
Tire Blowouts
Heat, agricultural debris, and overloaded axles cause tire failures on Hardin County highways. A blowout on a livestock hauler near Hubbard caused the driver to lose control and cross the centerline. Post-crash inspection revealed tread depth below the 4/32” minimum required by § 393.75 for steer tires.
Brake Failure
Descending the grades into the Iowa River valley, trucks overheat their brakes. Without proper inspection under § 396.17, these systems fail. We’ve litigated cases where the trucking company’s own maintenance records showed overdue brake adjustments for six months before the crash that paralyzed our client.
Cargo Spills and Shifts
When grain elevators in Hardin County load corn too fast or fail to properly secure tarps, cargo spills onto US-20. Shifting loads cause rollovers. These cases often involve the shipper’s liability—the grain elevator or co-op that loaded the truck negligently.
Everyone Who Might Owe You Money
Unlike car crashes where usually only one driver is at fault, 18-wheeler accidents involve multiple liable parties. We investigate every single one because more defendants means more insurance coverage.
The Truck Driver
Personally liable for speeding, distracted driving, fatigue, impairment, or violation of traffic laws. We examine their cell phone records, driving history, and medical certifications.
The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)
Under Iowa’s respondeat superior doctrine, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts. Plus, we pursue direct negligence claims for negligent hiring (failure to check the driver’s DQ file), negligent training, negligent supervision, and negligent maintenance. When Ralph Manginello takes on a case against a major carrier like TMC or a local Hardin County operator, he subpoenas their CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores and safety audit records to prove a pattern of violations.
The Cargo Owner/Shipper
The grain elevator in Eldora that overloaded the trailer or the livestock broker that demanded an unrealistic delivery schedule may share liability. We review shipping contracts and loading instructions.
The Loading Company
Third-party loaders at the co-op who failed to secure tarps or balance loads can be liable under § 393.100 violations.
Truck and Parts Manufacturers
Defective brake systems from manufacturers or faulty tires can trigger product liability claims. We preserve failed components for expert analysis and check recall databases.
Maintenance Companies
Third-party shops that performed negligent brake repairs or failed to identify critical safety issues may be liable for improper repairs under § 396.3.
Freight Brokers
Brokers who arranged the shipment using carriers with poor safety records or inadequate insurance can be liable for negligent selection.
The Truck Owner (if different from operator)
In owner-operator arrangements, the owner may be liable for negligent entrustment or failure to maintain equipment.
Government Entities
Hardin County or the Iowa DOT may be liable for dangerous road design, inadequate signage, or failure to maintain rural intersections. However, sovereign immunity limits apply, and notice requirements are strict under Iowa Code § 669.14.
The Evidence That Disappears in 48 Hours
Trucking companies don’t wait. They dispatch rapid-response teams to Hardin County accident scenes before the tow trucks arrive. If you wait a week to call an attorney, critical evidence may be gone forever.
Electronic Control Module (ECM) Data
The truck’s “black box” records speed, brake application, throttle position, and fault codes. This data can be overwritten in as little as 30 days or with new driving events. We send spoliation letters within 24 hours of being retained to preserve this data.
Electronic Logging Devices (ELD)
Since December 2017, most trucks must have ELDs tracking hours of service. FMCSA only requires retention for six months, but once we send a preservation letter, destruction becomes spoliation, subject to court sanctions.
Driver Qualification Files
The trucking company must retain these for three years after termination (§ 391.51). We demand immediate production to check for falsified medical certificates or missing background checks.
Maintenance Records
Under § 396.3, carriers must keep records for one year. We look for deferred brake repairs, tire replacement delays, and ignored driver inspection reports.
Dashcam and Surveillance Footage
Many trucks have forward-facing cameras. Nearby businesses along US-20 or Highway 65 may have security footage. These systems overwrite in 7-30 days.
Witness Statements
Memories fade. We interview witnesses immediately while the skid marks are still fresh on the pavement.
When you call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911, we take immediate action. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense lawyer who spent years inside the system fighting for carriers like the one that hit you, knows exactly what evidence they’re trying to hide. He uses that insider knowledge to build your case.
When Trucks Destroy Lives: Catastrophic Injuries
The injuries from 18-wheeler accidents in Hardin County aren’t simple fractures that heal in six weeks. They’re life-altering traumas requiring lifelong care.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
The force of an 80,000-pound impact causes the brain to strike the skull. Symptoms range from headaches and confusion to permanent cognitive impairment and personality changes. Our firm has recovered between $1.5 million and $9.8 million for TBI victims to cover lifelong care, lost earning capacity, and pain and suffering.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
Quadriplegia and paraplegia result from crushing forces. Lifetime care costs range from $3.5 million to $5 million or more. We’ve secured settlements between $4.7 million and $25.8 million for spinal injury victims, ensuring they have resources for wheelchairs, home modifications, and 24/7 nursing care.
Amputation
Whether traumatic (severed at the scene) or surgical (removal due to crush injuries), amputation requires prosthetics ($5,000-$50,000 each), rehabilitation, and psychological counseling. Our amputation case results range from $1.9 million to $8.6 million.
Severe Burns
Fuel fires from ruptured tanks or hazmat spills cause third and fourth-degree burns. These require skin grafts, multiple surgeries, and leave permanent scarring and disfigurement.
Wrongful Death
When a Hardin County family loses a breadwinner on US-20, we pursue wrongful death claims for lost income, loss of consortium, mental anguish, and funeral expenses. Our wrongful death recoveries range from $1.9 million to $9.5 million.
As Glenda Walker, a former client, said, “They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.” That’s our promise to you.
Understanding Hardin County’s Legal Landscape
Statute of Limitations
Iowa Code § 614.1 gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injury or wrongful death. Miss that deadline, and you lose your right to compensation forever. Given that evidence disappears in weeks, not years, you should contact us immediately.
Comparative Negligence
Iowa follows a modified comparative fault rule (51% bar). If you’re found 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing. Trucking companies and their insurers will try to blame you—claiming you were speeding or failed to yield. We fight back with ECM data, accident reconstruction, and eyewitness testimony to minimize your fault percentage.
Damages Caps
Unlike some states, Iowa does not cap non-economic damages (pain and suffering) in personal injury cases involving commercial vehicles. This means you can recover full compensation for your suffering, not just medical bills.
Federal Court Access
Because trucking accidents involve interstate commerce, they can sometimes be removed to federal court. Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas and brings federal court experience to complex cases, a distinction many local Hardin County attorneys cannot offer.
Frequently Asked Questions for Hardin County Residents
How long do I have to file a trucking accident lawsuit in Hardin County?
Two years from the accident date under Iowa law. But waiting is dangerous—evidence disappears fast. Call us within days.
Can I still recover if I was partially at fault for the crash on US-20?
Yes, as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your fault percentage. We work to minimize your assigned fault using black box data and expert reconstruction.
What makes trucking accidents different from car accidents?
The regulations, the multiple liable parties, the higher insurance limits ($750,000 to $5 million federally required), and the severity of injuries. Plus, trucking companies have lawyers working immediately.
Who pays my medical bills while we wait for settlement?
We can help you find medical treatment under a Letter of Protection (LOP), where providers agree to wait for payment until your case resolves. We also help coordinate with your health insurance.
Do I really need a lawyer for a trucking accident in Hardin County?
Statistically, yes. Insurance companies offer unrepresented claimants pennies on the dollar. As Donald Wilcox told us, “One company said they would not accept my case. Then I got a call from Manginello… I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”
What if the truck driver was from out of state?
That’s common. We handle interstate cases regularly. The FMCSA regulations apply nationwide, and we can pursue Iowa claims against out-of-state defendants.
How much is my Hardin County trucking accident case worth?
It depends on injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, and available insurance. We’ve recovered millions for clients with catastrophic injuries, but every case is unique.
Will my case go to trial?
Most settle, but we prepare every case for trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers will actually go to court—and they pay those lawyers more.
What about workers’ compensation if I was driving a truck for work?
If you were the truck driver injured in a crash, you may have a workers’ comp claim against your employer plus a third-party claim against another negligent driver. We coordinate these claims.
Habla Español?
Sí. Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish. We serve Hardin County’s Hispanic community with direct, interpreter-free representation. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.
What if the trucking company destroys evidence?
Once we send a spoliation letter, destruction of evidence subjects them to court sanctions and adverse jury instructions. We act fast to prevent this.
Can I afford an attorney?
Absolutely. We work on contingency—33.33% if settled before trial, 40% if we go to trial. You pay nothing upfront. Ever.
What should I do right now if I’m reading this in the hospital?
Call us at 1-888-ATTY-911. Do not give recorded statements to insurance adjusters. Let us handle the legal battle while you heal.
Your Fight Starts With One Call
Trucking companies have teams of lawyers. They have investigators. They have insurance adjusters trained to minimize your payout. You need someone who knows their playbook—because they wrote it.
Ralph Manginello has been leveling the playing field since 1998. Our firm has recovered over $50 million for families across America, including multi-million dollar settlements for brain injury, amputation, and wrongful death cases. We’ve gone toe-to-toe with Fortune 500 corporations in the BP Texas City litigation, and we bring that same tenacity to every Hardin County case.
But beyond the verdicts, what sets us apart is how we treat you. As Ernest Cano said, “Mr. Manginello and his firm are first class. Will fight tooth and nail for you.” And as Angel Walle told us, “They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
Time is running out. The black box data is already at risk. The trucking company is building their defense. Every hour you wait makes your case harder to prove.
If you’ve been hurt in an 18-wheeler accident in Hardin County—whether it was a jackknife on US-20, a rollover on Highway 65, or a rear-end crash near Eldora—call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. We answer 24/7. The consultation is free. And we don’t get paid unless you win.
Let us fight for every dime you deserve. Like Kiimarii Yup said after we helped her recover from a devastating crash, “I lost everything… 1 year later I have gained so much in return.” That’s the Attorney911 difference.
Call 888-ATTY-911 today. We’re ready when you are.
