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LaPorte County 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys: Attorney911 Combines 25+ Years of Federal Court Litigation Experience Under Managing Partner Ralph Manginello Since 1998 With Former Insurance Defense Attorney Lupe Peña Who Knows Every Tactic Insurers Use Against Victims We Master FMCSA 49 CFR 390-399 Regulations Hunt Hours of Service Violations and Extract Black Box ELD Data for Jackknife Rollover Underride and Hazmat Spill Crashes Specializing in Traumatic Brain Injury Spinal Cord Damage Amputation and Wrongful Death With $50+ Million Recovered Including $5+ Million Brain Injury $3.8+ Million Amputation and $2.5+ Million Truck Crash Settlements We Advance All Costs Offer Free 24/7 Consultation and Charge No Fee Unless We Win Hablamos Español Federal Court Admitted Trial Lawyers Achievement Association Million Dollar Member The Firm Insurers Fear Call 1-888-ATTY-911 Legal Emergency Lawyers

February 22, 2026 27 min read
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When an 80,000-pound truck slams into your vehicle on the Indiana Toll Road, your life changes in an instant. You’re not dealing with a fender-bender—you’re facing catastrophic injuries, mounting medical bills, and a trucking company that’s already working to minimize your claim. In LaPorte County, where I-80 and I-94 carry thousands of commercial trucks daily between Chicago and Detroit, these crashes aren’t rare. They’re devastating. And you need more than a general personal injury lawyer. You need a team that knows exactly how to hold trucking companies accountable under federal law.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for truck accident victims across Indiana and beyond. Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, has been litigating these cases since 1998. He’s admitted to federal court, has taken on Fortune 500 companies, and has recovered multi-million dollar settlements for families just like yours. Our associate attorney Lupe Peña used to defend insurance companies—now he fights against them, and he knows every tactic they’ll use to deny your claim. When you’re staring at a future of medical treatments, lost wages, and permanent pain, you need that kind of firepower in your corner.

Don’t wait. Evidence disappears fast. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now for a free consultation.

Why 18-Wheeler Accidents in LaPorte County Are Different

A fully loaded semi-truck weighs up to 80,000 pounds. Your car? Maybe 4,000 pounds. That’s not a collision—it’s a demolition. On LaPorte County’s stretch of the Indiana Toll Road, where trucks barrel through at 70 miles per hour year-round, the physics are brutal. A truck traveling at highway speed needs nearly two football fields to stop. In winter, when lake-effect snow blankets northwest Indiana and black ice forms on I-94 near Michigan City, that stopping distance doubles.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reports that approximately 5,100 people die annually in large truck crashes nationwide, with another 125,000 injured. In Indiana, the numbers hit close to home. When these accidents happen on US-31 through LaPorte or US-20 near Rolling Prairie, the injuries aren’t simple whiplash. We’re talking about traumatic brain injuries, crushed limbs, spinal cord damage, and wrongful death.

Trucking companies know this. They carry $750,000 to $5 million in insurance precisely because when their drivers mess up, people get seriously hurt. But here’s what they hope you don’t know: that money is only accessible if you understand FMCSA regulations, preserve evidence immediately, and build a case that proves the trucking company broke federal safety rules. That’s where we come in.

Ralph Manginello has spent decades decoding black box data, analyzing driver logs, and proving that trucking companies put profits over safety. As he often tells our clients: “The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect them. You need someone protecting you.” Call 888-ATTY-911 today.

The Catastrophic Truth: Common 18-Wheeler Accident Types in LaPorte County

Every truck accident is unique, but certain patterns emerge again and again on LaPorte County highways. Understanding how these crashes happen—and which FMCSA regulations were likely violated—forms the backbone of your case.

Jackknife Accidents on Icy Indiana Highways

A jackknife occurs when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, folding like a pocket knife. On LaPorte County’s stretch of I-80, where crosswinds whip off Lake Michigan and winter storms create treacherous conditions, these accidents spike between December and March. They often result from sudden braking on slick surfaces, speeding for conditions, or improperly loaded trailers that lose traction.

Under 49 CFR § 392.6, drivers must operate at speeds reasonable for conditions. When a trucker barrels through a snow squall at 65 mph and jackknifes across three lanes, they’ve violated federal law. We examine ECM data to prove they were driving too fast for the weather, and we subpoena cargo manifests to check if the load was properly secured under 49 CFR Part 393.

Underride Collisions: The Deadliest Crashes

An underride occurs when a passenger vehicle slides under the trailer, often shearing off the roof and causing instantaneous death or decapitation. These happen frequently on US-31 and US-421 in LaPorte County, particularly at intersections or when trucks make sudden stops. While 49 CFR § 393.86 requires rear impact guards, many are damaged, missing, or insufficiently maintained. Side underride guards aren’t federally mandated yet, but that doesn’t absolve trucking companies of liability when they fail to protect other drivers from obvious dangers.

These cases require immediate investigation. We send preservation letters within 24 hours to document the underride guard condition before the truck is repaired or destroyed.

Rear-End Collisions: The Physics of 80,000 Pounds

When a truck rear-ends a car on the Indiana Toll Road, the force is catastrophic. Trucks need 40% more stopping distance than passenger vehicles. If a trucker is following too closely under 49 CFR § 392.11, driving while fatigued under 49 CFR § 392.3, or distracted by a cell phone under 49 CFR § 392.82, they’ve broken federal law and endangered your life.

We download ECM data to prove following distances and reaction times. We also subpoena ELD records to see if the driver violated Hours of Service rules under 49 CFR Part 395—driving beyond the 11-hour limit or skipping required rest breaks.

Rollover Accidents on Curves

LaPorte County’s agricultural industry means trucks carry heavy loads of grain and equipment over rural roads with tight curves. When these top-heavy vehicles take turns too fast, they roll over, crushing anything in their path. 49 CFR § 393.100 requires proper cargo securement, but overloaded or improperly balanced trailers shift the center of gravity, causing rollovers even at moderate speeds.

Tire Blowouts and Brake Failures

High speeds and heavy loads generate massive heat. On long descents from the toll road viaducts, brakes can overheat and fade. Faulty maintenance under 49 CFR Part 396—skipping required inspections or deferring brake repairs—often proves the trucking company knew their equipment was dangerous but chose to keep the truck on the road anyway.

Tire blowouts cause similar chaos. When a steer tire blows at 65 mph on I-94, the driver loses control instantly. 49 CFR § 396.3 requires systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance. Worn tires with insufficient tread depth violate 49 CFR § 393.75 and create liability.

Wide Turn Accidents in Downtown LaPorte

As trucks navigate tight turns in LaPorte’s historic downtown or make deliveries to industrial facilities near Kingsbury, they often “squeeze” other vehicles during wide right turns. These accidents happen when drivers fail to signal properly, check mirrors inadequately, or swing into opposing traffic lanes without warning.

Who Can Be Held Liable? It’s Not Just the Driver

Most people think you just sue the truck driver. That’s exactly what the trucking company wants you to think. In reality, multiple parties can be held responsible for your injuries, and each represents a separate insurance policy and additional compensation. Attorney911 investigates every potential defendant because more liable parties means more recovery for you.

The Truck Driver

The driver who caused your accident is personally liable for negligent acts: speeding, distracted driving, fatigue, impairment, or violations of 49 CFR Part 392 (safe driving rules). We obtain their driving history, cell phone records, and post-accident drug/alcohol tests required under 49 CFR Part 382.

The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

This is where the real money is. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, trucking companies are vicariously liable for their employees’ negligence. But they’re also directly liable for:

  • Negligent Hiring: Under 49 CFR Part 391, carriers must maintain Driver Qualification Files. If they hired a driver with a poor safety record, no valid CDL, or a history of drug violations, they broke the law.
  • Negligent Training: Failure to train drivers on proper cargo securement, winter driving, or hours of service compliance.
  • Negligent Supervision: Ignoring ELD warnings about HOS violations or failing to monitor a driver with known medical issues.
  • Negligent Maintenance: Systematic failures to inspect and repair vehicles under 49 CFR Part 396.

Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years defending these companies. He knows exactly where they hide evidence and how to expose their safety violations.

The Cargo Owner and Loading Company

LaPorte County’s economy relies on manufacturing and agriculture. When grain elevators overload trucks or manufacturers ship steel coils without proper securing, they violate 49 CFR § 393.100-136. Shifting cargo causes rollovers and jackknifes. We pursue claims against everyone who touched that load—the shipper, the broker who arranged transport, and the third-party loading facility.

The Maintenance Company

Many carriers outsource maintenance to third-party shops. When these mechanics fail to adjust brakes properly, ignore air brake leaks, or install defective tires, they share liability for the resulting crash.

Truck and Parts Manufacturers

Defective brake systems, faulty steering mechanisms, or inadequate undercarriage protection can trigger product liability claims. We preserve failed components for expert analysis and research recall histories through NHTSA databases.

Freight Brokers

Brokers who arrange transportation but fail to verify carrier safety records—ignoring poor CSA scores or hiring uninsured operators—can be liable for negligent selection.

Government Entities

If dangerous road design, inadequate signage, or failure to maintain US-20 or IN-2 contributed to your accident, we pursue claims against responsible government agencies—though Indiana’s Tort Claims Act imposes strict notice requirements and damage caps that require immediate action.

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

Here’s the brutal truth: the trucking company is building their defense right now. While you were in the hospital, their rapid-response team was at the scene. They have lawyers, accident reconstructionists, and insurance adjusters working to protect them. Evidence that could prove your case is disappearing as you read this.

Critical Evidence Timelines

Evidence Type Destruction Risk
ECM/Black Box Data Overwrites in 30 days or with new driving events
ELD Logs May be retained only 6 months
Dashcam Footage Often deleted within 7-14 days
Driver’s Cell Phone Records Must be preserved immediately
Maintenance Records Can be “updated” to hide deferred repairs
Witness Statements Memories fade within days
Physical Truck May be repaired or sold within weeks

The Spoliation Letter

When you hire Attorney911, we send a formal spoliation letter within 24 hours to the trucking company, their insurer, and all potentially liable parties. This legal notice demands preservation of:

  • Electronic Data: ECM, ELD, GPS, telematics, dispatcher communications
  • Driver Records: Complete Driver Qualification File, drug/alcohol tests, medical certifications under 49 CFR § 391.41
  • Vehicle Records: Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports, maintenance logs, brake adjustment records
  • Cargo Documentation: Bills of lading, weight tickets, loading manifests

Once this letter is sent, destroying evidence becomes spoliation—a serious legal violation that can result in adverse inference instructions (the jury is told to assume destroyed evidence was unfavorable to the trucking company) or even default judgment.

Don’t wait. Call 1-888-288-9911 today to protect your evidence.

FMCSA Regulations: The Rules Trucking Companies Broke

Federal trucking regulations aren’t boring legal minutiae—they’re the safety standards that keep families alive. When trucking companies violate these rules, they endanger everyone on LaPorte County roads. We use these violations to prove negligence and maximize your recovery.

49 CFR Part 391 – Driver Qualification Standards

Before a driver can legally operate a commercial vehicle, they must:

  • Be at least 21 years old for interstate commerce
  • Speak sufficient English to communicate with law enforcement
  • Possess a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
  • Pass a physical examination and maintain a current Medical Examiner’s Certificate
  • Pass a road test or equivalent
  • Maintain a clean driving record with no disqualifying offenses

Trucking companies must maintain a Driver Qualification File for every driver. If these files are incomplete or missing, it proves negligent hiring.

49 CFR Part 392 – Safe Driving Rules

These are the operational rules of the road:

  • § 392.3: No driving while fatigued or ill
  • § 392.4/5: No drugs or alcohol (0.04 BAC limit for commercial drivers—half the standard limit)
  • § 392.6: No scheduling routes that require speeding
  • § 392.11: No following too closely (must maintain “reasonable and prudent” distance)
  • § 392.80/82: No texting or handheld mobile phone use while driving

49 CFR Part 393 – Vehicle Safety and Cargo Securement

  • § 393.100-136: Cargo must be secured to withstand 0.8g deceleration forward, 0.5g rearward, and 0.5g lateral forces
  • § 393.48: Brake systems must function properly
  • § 393.75: Minimum tread depth requirements (4/32″ for steer tires, 2/32″ for others)
  • § 393.86: Rear impact guards required

49 CFR Part 395 – Hours of Service (HOS)

These are among the most commonly violated regulations:

  • 11-Hour Rule: Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
  • 14-Hour Window: Cannot drive beyond 14 consecutive hours after coming on duty
  • 30-Minute Break: Required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
  • 60/70-Hour Limits: Cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days

ELDs (Electronic Logging Devices) automatically record this data since 2017. We download this data to prove fatigue was a factor in your crash.

49 CFR Part 396 – Inspection and Maintenance

  • Daily pre-trip and post-trip inspections required
  • Maintenance records must be kept for specific periods
  • Vehicles must pass annual inspections
  • Drivers cannot operate vehicles with known safety defects

When we find violations of these regulations, we don’t just prove negligence—we often prove gross negligence that supports punitive damages claims.

Catastrophic Injuries: Understanding What You’re Facing

18-wheeler accidents don’t cause bruises and scrapes. They cause life-altering trauma. At Attorney911, we focus on catastrophic injury cases because these victims need substantial resources to rebuild their lives.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

The force of an 80,000-pound impact causes the brain to slam against the skull. Even “mild” concussions can result in:

  • Memory loss and cognitive impairment
  • Personality changes
  • Chronic headaches and dizziness
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Loss of executive function

Severe TBIs may require 24/7 care for life. Attorney911 has recovered settlements ranging from $1.5 million to $9.8 million for TBI victims, ensuring they have resources for ongoing care.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Damage to the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine can result in:

  • Paraplegia (paralysis below the waist)
  • Quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs)
  • Incomplete injuries with partial function loss

Lifetime care costs for quadriplegia can exceed $5 million for direct medical expenses alone—without accounting for lost wages or pain and suffering. We’ve secured verdicts and settlements in the $4.7 million to $25.8 million range for these devastating injuries.

Amputation

When limbs are crushed beyond repair or severed at the scene, victims face:

  • Multiple surgeries
  • Prosthetic limbs ($5,000-$50,000 each, requiring replacement every 3-5 years)
  • Phantom limb pain
  • Permanent disability and occupational limitations

Our firm recovered $3.8 million for a car accident victim who suffered a partial leg amputation after complications set in. For trucking accident amputations, settlements often range from $1.9 million to $8.6 million.

Severe Burns

Fuel tank ruptures and explosions cause third and fourth-degree burns requiring:

  • Extended ICU stays
  • Skin graft surgeries
  • Reconstructive procedures
  • Permanent scarring and disfigurement

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident takes a loved one, Indiana law allows surviving spouses, children, and parents to recover:

  • Lost income and benefits the decedent would have earned
  • Loss of consortium and companionship
  • Mental anguish
  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Medical costs incurred before death

We’ve recovered $1.9 million to $9.5 million for wrongful death claims, helping families find justice while ensuring financial security.

As client Ernest Cano said, “Mr. Manginello and his firm are first class. Will fight tooth and nail for you.” That fighting spirit matters when you’re facing these catastrophic injuries.

Indiana Law: What You Need to Know

Understanding Indiana’s legal framework helps you protect your rights and set realistic expectations.

Statute of Limitations

In Indiana, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, the clock starts on the date of death. This seems like a long time, but evidence disappears fast. If you wait, the trucking company will have already repaired their truck, overwritten their black box, and coached their driver on what to say.

Comparative Negligence

Indiana follows a modified comparative negligence rule with a 51% bar. This means:

  • If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover, but your damages are 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 braked suddenly, were in a blind spot, or merged improperly. We fight back with ECM data, witness statements, and accident reconstruction to minimize any attributed fault and maximize your recovery.

Damage Caps

While Indiana doesn’t cap economic damages or standard non-economic damages in personal injury cases, punitive damages are limited to the greater of (3x compensatory damages) or $50,000. These require proving “willful and wanton misconduct”—something we pursue when trucking companies knowingly put dangerous drivers on the road or falsify safety records.

Governmental Immunity

If your accident involved a government vehicle or dangerous road conditions maintained by the state or county, Indiana’s Tort Claims Act applies. Damage caps apply ($300,000 per person for state claims), and notice requirements are strict. You must act quickly to preserve these claims.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your LaPorte County Trucking Case?

You have choices after a truck accident. Here’s why families in LaPorte County and throughout Indiana choose Attorney911:

25+ Years of Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He’s handled cases against Fortune 500 companies like BP (Texas City refinery explosion litigation), major commercial carriers like Walmart and FedEx, and insurance giants. He knows how to build cases that trucking companies fear.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

Lupe Peña is a former insurance defense lawyer. He spent years inside the system, learning exactly how adjusters minimize claims, what valuation software they use (like Colossus), and when they’re bluffing about settlement authority. Now he uses that insider knowledge against them. As he says, “I know their playbook because I used to run those plays.”

Federal Court Admission

Many trucking cases belong in federal court under diversity jurisdiction or because they invoke federal regulations. Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas and other federal courts. This means we can handle your case wherever it needs to be filed.

Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve recovered over $50 million for our clients total, including:

  • $5+ million for TBI victims
  • $3.8+ million for amputation cases
  • $2.5+ million for trucking accidents
  • $2+ million for maritime and offshore injuries

We Take Cases Other Firms Reject

As client 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.” We don’t shy away from difficult cases. We find the evidence and build the arguments that win.

Personal Attention—You’re Family, Not a File Number

Client Chad Harris explained it best: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” At Attorney911, you get direct access to your attorney. Ralph Manginello personally handles cases and gives clients his cell phone number. You’re not handed off to a case manager and forgotten.

Hablamos Español

Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish and provides direct representation without interpreters. For LaPorte County’s Spanish-speaking community, this means accurate communication and culturally competent advocacy. Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911.

Contingency Fee—No Fee Unless We Win

You pay nothing upfront. We advance all investigation costs, expert fees, and court expenses. Our fee—standard 33.33% pre-trial, 40% if trial is necessary—comes only from your recovery. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing. Zero financial risk to you.

Client Success Stories: Real Results for Real People

Don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what clients say about working with Attorney911:

Glenda Walker fought for “every dime” after her accident: “They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze. They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”

Donald Wilcox came to us after another firm rejected his case: “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.”

Kiimarii Yup lost everything but gained it back: “I lost everything… my car was at a total loss, and because of Attorney Manginello and my case worker Leonor, 1 year later I have gained so much in return plus a brand new truck.”

Angel Walle appreciated our speed: “They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”

Chad Harris felt like family: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”

Ernest Cano valued our tenacity: “Mr. Manginello and his firm are first class. Will fight tooth and nail for you.”

These aren’t just testimonials—they’re proof of how we treat every case. Whether you’re facing a multi-million dollar catastrophic injury claim or a serious but straightforward truck accident case, you get the same dedication.

Frequently Asked Questions: LaPorte County 18-Wheeler Accidents

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a truck accident in Indiana?

You have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Indiana. For wrongful death claims, the two years starts on the date of death. However, you should never wait that long. Critical evidence like black box data can be overwritten in 30 days, and trucking companies start building their defense immediately. Call us within 48 hours.

What if the trucking company says the accident was my fault?

Indiana uses modified comparative negligence. As long as you’re not more than 50% at fault, you can recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault. We use ECM data, ELD logs, and accident reconstruction to prove the truck driver was primarily responsible. Don’t let their insurance adjuster intimidate you.

How much is my truck accident case worth?

Every case is unique. Value depends on injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and insurance coverage. Because trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5 million in insurance, catastrophic injury cases often settle for $500,000 to $10 million or more. We evaluate your case for free.

Who can be held liable besides the driver?

Potentially: the trucking company, cargo owner, loading company, maintenance shop, parts manufacturer, freight broker, and sometimes government entities. We investigate every angle to maximize your recovery.

What is a spoliation letter and why does it matter?

It’s a legal notice demanding preservation of evidence. Once sent, the trucking company cannot legally destroy ECM data, driver logs, maintenance records, or other evidence. We send these within 24 hours of being hired.

Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle, but we prepare every case for trial. Insurance companies know which attorneys are willing to go to court—they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready lawyers. Ralph Manginello has 25+ years of courtroom experience and isn’t afraid to take your case to verdict if that’s what justice requires.

How much does it cost to hire Attorney911?

Nothing upfront. We work on contingency. You pay no legal fees unless we win your case. We also advance all costs for experts and investigation. Call 888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

What if I was partially at fault?

You can still recover if you’re 50% or less at fault, but your damages are reduced by your fault percentage. Don’t assume you were at fault—the trucking company’s insurance adjuster may be trying to manipulate you. Let us investigate first.

Do you handle cases in LaPorte County specifically?

Yes. While our offices are in Texas, Attorney911 handles truck accident cases nationwide. Ralph Manginello is admitted to federal court and can represent you in Indiana state and federal courts. We travel to LaPorte County for depositions, trials, and client meetings as needed.

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

The trucking company may still be liable under various legal theories, including negligent hiring if they failed to verify the driver’s qualifications or safety record. The company leasing the truck may also carry insurance. We sort out these complex relationships.

The Evidence That Wins Trucking Cases

Successfully litigating an 18-wheeler accident requires understanding what evidence matters and securing it before it disappears. Here’s what we look for:

Electronic Control Module (ECM) Data

The “black box” records 30 days of operational data: speed, braking, throttle position, cruise control usage, and fault codes. This objective data often contradicts a driver’s claim that “I wasn’t speeding” or “I hit my brakes immediately.”

Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Records

Since 2017, federal law requires ELDs to track Hours of Service. We download this data to prove fatigue-based violations of 49 CFR Part 395.

Driver Qualification Files

Under 49 CFR § 391.51, trucking companies must maintain files proving their drivers are qualified. Missing medical certificates, failed drug tests, or incomplete background checks prove negligent hiring.

Maintenance and Inspection Records

Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports, annual inspection certificates, and repair orders show whether the trucking company maintained their equipment or deferred critical safety repairs to save money.

Cell Phone Records

We subpoena the driver’s phone records to prove distraction under 49 CFR § 392.82. Even hands-free devices can be distracting enough to constitute negligence.

Witness Statements

Independent witnesses who saw the truck weaving, speeding, or driving erratically provide crucial testimony, especially when liability is disputed.

Accident Scene Documentation

Photographs of skid marks, debris patterns, road conditions, and vehicle damage help reconstruction experts determine exactly how the crash occurred.

Commercial Insurance and Available Coverage

Federal law mandates minimum insurance coverage for commercial trucks:

Cargo Type Minimum Coverage
General freight $750,000
Oil and hazardous materials $1,000,000 to $5,000,000

Many carriers carry $1 million to $5 million in coverage. This isn’t like a car accident where the at-fault driver might have $25,000 in coverage. There’s money available to pay for your catastrophic injuries—but only if you know how to access it.

We identify all available policies: the motor carrier’s liability policy, excess/umbrella coverage, trailer interchange insurance, and any other applicable coverage. When multiple parties are liable, we stack insurance policies to maximize your recovery.

Punitive damages may be available when trucking companies act with gross negligence—knowingly hiring dangerous drivers, falsifying logs, or destroying evidence. While Indiana caps punitive damages, the threat of these damages often drives significant settlement offers.

Immediate Steps to Take After a LaPorte County Truck Accident

If you’re able, take these steps immediately after an 18-wheeler crash:

  1. Call 911 and request police and EMS
  2. Seek medical attention immediately—adrenaline masks injuries
  3. Document the scene—photos of damage, road conditions, skid marks, traffic controls
  4. Get information—truck driver’s CDL, DOT number, insurance, company name; witness contact info
  5. Do NOT give recorded statements to the trucking company’s insurer
  6. Contact Attorney911 at 1-888-288-9911 before evidence disappears

If you’re too injured to do these things, don’t worry. We handle the investigation. But if you can safely document the scene, it helps build your case.

Your Future Depends on Immediate Action

The trucking company isn’t waiting. They have investigators at the scene within hours, lawyers working to protect their interests, and adjusters trained to minimize your claim. Every day you wait without representation, evidence disappears and your claim loses value.

At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through. The pain. The uncertainty. The fear about how you’ll pay medical bills or support your family. We’ve helped hundreds of families navigate this exact situation, recovering millions in compensation and holding trucking companies accountable for their negligence.

Ralph Manginello has been fighting this fight for over 25 years. Lupe Peña brings insider knowledge of insurance defense tactics. Our team includes dedicated staff like Leonor and Zulema who keep you informed and make sure you’re treated like family, not a case number.

We know LaPorte County. We know the Indiana Toll Road. We know how to win trucking cases in Indiana courts. And we’re ready to fight for you.

Don’t wait. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. Free consultation. No fee unless we win. We’re available 24/7 because trucking accidents don’t happen on business hours.

Hablamos Español. Llame hoy al 888-ATTY-911.

Your fight starts with one call. Make it now.

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