Off-Duty Border Patrol Agent Arrested for DWI at Laredo Truck Stop: What This Means for Texas Road Safety

Every year, thousands of Texans share the road with commercial trucks, law enforcement vehicles, and off-duty officers. But when those entrusted with public safety violate the law themselves, the consequences can be devastating. The recent arrest of an off-duty Border Patrol agent for driving while intoxicated at a Laredo truck stop raises serious questions about accountability, regulatory compliance, and the very real dangers of impaired driving—especially when it involves individuals who should know better.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years holding trucking companies, commercial drivers, and negligent parties accountable when their actions cause harm on Texas roads. This incident isn’t just a news story—it’s a stark reminder of how quickly lives can change when those behind the wheel fail to prioritize safety. If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident or by an impaired driver in Texas, you need an attorney who understands the complex web of federal regulations, state laws, and corporate accountability that govern these cases.

The Incident: What Happened at the Fuel America Truck Stop

On Monday, February 18, 2026, at approximately 6:19 p.m., Laredo Police Department officers responded to a call about an intoxicated person at the Fuel America Truck Stop located at 13602 Mines Road. Inside the truck stop, officers located 38-year-old Harley Quesada, an off-duty Border Patrol agent, who was observed stumbling and speaking with slurred speech.

Quesada was detained and arrested on a charge of driving while intoxicated (DWI). During the investigation, officers learned that Quesada was an off-duty Border Patrol agent. Jail records show he was booked into Webb County Jail and released the next day after posting a $1,500 bond.

The Timeline of Events

Why This Location Matters

The Fuel America Truck Stop at 13602 Mines Road is a critical rest and refueling point for commercial drivers traveling along Mines Road, a major corridor that connects Laredo to Interstate 35—a route that carries some of the heaviest truck traffic in the nation. This area is part of the NAFTA corridor, where thousands of commercial vehicles cross the U.S.-Mexico border daily, transporting goods that fuel Texas’s economy.

Truck stops like Fuel America are designed to be safe havens for drivers to rest, refuel, and comply with federal hours-of-service regulations. But when these locations become scenes of impaired driving—especially involving law enforcement—they expose a dangerous gap in accountability that puts every driver on the road at risk.

The Legal Implications: DWI, Federal Regulations, and Public Trust

1. DWI Charges Under Texas Law

In Texas, driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious criminal offense. Under Texas Penal Code § 49.04, a person commits DWI if they operate a motor vehicle in a public place while intoxicated. Intoxication is defined as:

• Having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or
• Not having the normal use of mental or physical faculties due to alcohol or drugs

For commercial drivers, the legal limit is even lower: 0.04% BAC. While Quesada was off-duty and not operating a commercial vehicle at the time of his arrest, his status as a Border Patrol agent—and the implied responsibility that comes with it—makes this case particularly concerning.

Potential Penalties for DWI in Texas

Beyond criminal penalties, a DWI conviction can result in:
– License suspension or revocation
– Increased insurance premiums
– Employment consequences (especially for law enforcement officers)
– Civil liability if the impaired driving causes an accident

2. Federal Regulations and Law Enforcement Officers

As a Border Patrol agent, Harley Quesada is a federal law enforcement officer. While off-duty, he is still subject to professional conduct standards and the expectation of upholding the law. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Code of Conduct requires agents to:

• Maintain the highest standards of integrity and professionalism
• Avoid conduct that discredits the agency or the United States
• Comply with all laws and regulations

A DWI arrest—let alone a conviction—could result in disciplinary action, suspension, or termination from federal employment. More importantly, it erodes public trust in law enforcement and raises questions about how agencies screen and monitor their personnel.

FMCSA Regulations and Impaired Driving

While Quesada was not operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) at the time of his arrest, his case intersects with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations in several critical ways:

1. Drug and Alcohol Testing (49 CFR Part 382)
   – FMCSA requires pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion drug and alcohol testing for commercial drivers.
   – 49 CFR § 382.201 prohibits drivers from reporting for duty or remaining on duty with any alcohol in their system.
   – 49 CFR § 382.215 requires employers to conduct alcohol tests when there is reasonable suspicion of impairment.

2. Driver Disqualification (49 CFR Part 383.51)
   – A DWI conviction can result in disqualification from operating a CMV for:

   • 1 year for a first offense
   • Lifetime for a second offense (with possible reinstatement after 10 years)
   • Even if Quesada was not driving a CMV, his arrest raises questions about whether he would be eligible to operate one in the future.

3. Employer Responsibility (49 CFR Part 390)
   – 49 CFR § 390.11 requires motor carriers to ensure their drivers comply with all regulations.
   – While this applies to commercial drivers, it underscores the broader principle that employers—including federal agencies—have a duty to ensure their personnel do not pose a danger to public safety.

3. The Truck Stop Connection: A Hub of Regulatory Compliance—and Risk

Truck stops like Fuel America are more than just refueling stations—they are critical nodes in the commercial transportation ecosystem. They serve as:

• Rest stops for drivers complying with hours-of-service (HOS) regulations (49 CFR Part 395)
• Inspection points where drivers conduct pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections (49 CFR § 396.13)
• Compliance checkpoints where drivers log their duty status and rest breaks

When impaired driving occurs at a truck stop, it raises concerns about:
– The safety culture among commercial drivers and law enforcement
– The effectiveness of random drug and alcohol testing at these locations
– The potential for impaired drivers to re-enter the roadway after brief stops

Truck stops are also frequent sites of FMCSA roadside inspections. In 2023 alone, Texas led the nation in roadside inspections, with over 500,000 inspections conducted. These inspections often catch hours-of-service violations, brake defects, and other safety issues—but they also highlight how easily impaired driving can go undetected if not actively monitored.

The Bigger Picture: Impaired Driving and Trucking Accidents in Texas

The Alarming Statistics

Impaired driving is a leading cause of trucking accidents nationwide, and Texas is no exception. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):

• Alcohol-impaired driving fatalities accounted for 28% of all traffic deaths in Texas in 2023.
• Large truck crashes involving alcohol or drugs result in fatalities at a rate 3.5 times higher than crashes without impairment.
• Fatigue and impairment are contributing factors in 31% of fatal large truck crashes.

In Texas, the problem is particularly acute due to:
– The sheer volume of truck traffic (Texas has more truck miles traveled than any other state)
– Long-haul routes that increase the risk of fatigue and substance use
– Border crossings where drivers may face pressure to meet tight delivery schedules

The Unique Dangers of Impaired Commercial Drivers

When a commercial driver operates a vehicle while impaired, the risks are exponentially higher due to:

1. Vehicle Size and Weight
   – A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds—20-25 times heavier than a passenger car.
   – Impaired drivers have slower reaction times, making it harder to control these massive vehicles.

2. Stopping Distance
   – At 65 mph, a fully loaded truck needs 525 feet to stop—nearly two football fields.
   – Impairment increases stopping distance and reduces the driver’s ability to react to hazards.

3. Cargo Risks
   – Impaired drivers are more likely to lose control of their cargo, leading to spills, rollovers, or jackknife accidents.
   – Hazardous materials (hazmat) require special handling—impairment increases the risk of catastrophic spills.

4. Fatigue and Impairment Synergy
   – Many impaired drivers are also fatigued, compounding the risk of accidents.
   – FMCSA hours-of-service violations often go hand-in-hand with substance use, as drivers push limits to meet deadlines.

Real-World Consequences: Landmark Cases and Verdicts

Impaired driving cases involving commercial vehicles have resulted in some of the largest verdicts and settlements in Texas history. These cases demonstrate how juries hold negligent parties accountable when impairment leads to tragedy.

1. $730 Million Verdict: Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger (2021)

• Location: Texas
• Incident: A Navy propeller being transported as an oversize load fell off a trailer and struck a vehicle, killing a 73-year-old woman.
• Key Factors: The trucking company was found to have pressured drivers to violate hours-of-service regulations, leading to fatigue and impaired judgment.
• Verdict: $480 million in compensatory damages + $250 million in punitive damages.
• Why It Matters: This case shows how corporate pressure to meet deadlines can lead to catastrophic accidents—and how juries punish gross negligence.

2. $150 Million Settlement: Werner Enterprises (2022)

• Location: Texas (I-30 corridor)
• Incident: Two children were killed when a Werner Enterprises truck crossed the median and struck their family’s vehicle.
• Key Factors: The driver had a history of substance abuse and hours-of-service violations, but the company failed to act on red flags.
• Settlement: $150 million—the largest 18-wheeler settlement in U.S. history.
• Why It Matters: This case underscores the importance of thorough background checks and monitoring driver behavior.

3. $462 Million Verdict: St. Louis Underride Case (2024)

• Location: Missouri (but relevant to Texas due to similar trucking corridors)
• Incident: Two men were decapitated in an underride crash when their vehicle slid under a trailer.
• Key Factors: The trailer lacked proper underride guards, and the driver was found to have violated hours-of-service regulations.
• Verdict: $462 million against the manufacturer and trucking company.
• Why It Matters: This case highlights how multiple parties—drivers, trucking companies, and manufacturers—can be held liable when safety is compromised.

4. $160 Million Verdict: Street v. Daimler (2024)

• Location: Alabama
• Incident: A rollover accident left the driver quadriplegic.
• Key Factors: The trucking company ignored maintenance records and failed to train drivers on rollover prevention.
• Verdict: $75 million in compensatory damages + $75 million in punitive damages.
• Why It Matters: This case demonstrates how poor training and maintenance can lead to life-altering injuries—and how juries respond to corporate negligence.

How These Cases Apply to the Quesada Incident

While Harley Quesada’s arrest did not result in an accident, his case shares key risk factors with these landmark verdicts:

1. Impairment and Public Safety
   – Quesada’s stumbling and slurred speech are classic signs of impairment that could have led to a catastrophic accident if he had driven.
   – Border Patrol agents often operate in high-stress environments where substance use can become a coping mechanism—raising questions about agency oversight.

2. Regulatory Compliance Failures
   – If Quesada had been operating a commercial vehicle, his arrest would have triggered FMCSA drug and alcohol testing requirements (49 CFR Part 382).
   – His case highlights how off-duty conduct can still pose risks to public safety—and how agencies must monitor personnel even when they’re not on the clock.

3. The Role of Truck Stops in Safety Culture
   – Truck stops are supposed to be safe havens for drivers to rest and comply with regulations.
   – When impaired driving occurs at these locations, it raises questions about whether truck stops are doing enough to monitor driver behavior and prevent impaired individuals from re-entering the roadway.

4. The Potential for Civil Liability
   – If Quesada had caused an accident while impaired, both he and his employer (U.S. Customs and Border Protection) could have faced civil lawsuits for negligence.
   – Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers can be held liable for employees’ actions if they occur within the scope of employment—even if the employee was off-duty at the time.

The Legal Path Forward: What Happens Next for Harley Quesada?

1. Criminal Proceedings

Quesada faces DWI charges under Texas law. The criminal case will proceed through the Webb County court system, where he will have the opportunity to:
– Plead guilty (potentially receiving a reduced sentence or probation)
– Plead no contest (accepting punishment without admitting guilt)
– Fight the charges at trial

If convicted, he could face:
– Jail time
– Fines
– License suspension
– Probation with mandatory alcohol education programs

2. Administrative and Employment Consequences

As a Border Patrol agent, Quesada is subject to federal employment policies and the CBP Code of Conduct. Potential consequences include:
– Suspension or termination from federal employment
– Loss of security clearance (critical for law enforcement roles)
– Disciplinary action up to and including removal from service

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct, and a DWI arrest—especially one involving public intoxication—could be grounds for immediate termination.

3. Civil Liability: Could Quesada Be Sued?

If Quesada had caused an accident while impaired, he could have faced civil lawsuits for:
– Negligence (failing to operate a vehicle safely)
– Gross negligence (if his impairment was extreme or reckless)
– Wrongful death or personal injury (if the accident caused harm to others)

Additionally, CBP could have been held liable under:
– Respondeat superior (if Quesada was acting within the scope of his employment)
– Negligent hiring or supervision (if the agency failed to monitor his conduct)

While no accident occurred in this case, the potential for civil liability is a critical reminder of how quickly impaired driving can escalate into tragedy.

What This Incident Means for Texas Drivers

1. The Risks of Sharing the Road with Impaired Drivers

Every time you get behind the wheel in Texas, you share the road with:
– Commercial trucks (over 500,000 registered in Texas)
– Law enforcement vehicles (thousands of state, local, and federal officers)
– Off-duty drivers who may be impaired, fatigued, or distracted

The Quesada case is a stark reminder that impairment doesn’t discriminate—it can affect anyone, including those who are supposed to protect us.

2. How to Protect Yourself on Texas Roads

If you’re driving in Texas—especially on high-traffic corridors like I-35, I-10, or Mines Road—take these steps to stay safe:

Before You Drive:

✅ Check your route for construction, weather, and high-risk areas.
✅ Avoid driving late at night when impaired and fatigued drivers are more common.
✅ Ensure your vehicle is in good condition (tires, brakes, lights).

While Driving:

✅ Maintain a safe following distance (at least 4 seconds behind trucks).
✅ Avoid truck blind spots (if you can’t see the driver’s mirrors, they can’t see you).
✅ Watch for erratic behavior (swerving, sudden braking, speeding).
✅ Never assume a driver sees you—especially at intersections and truck stops.

If You’re Involved in an Accident:

🚨 Call 911 immediately—even if injuries seem minor.
📸 Document the scene with photos and videos (vehicle damage, road conditions, injuries).
📝 Get witness information (names, phone numbers, statements).
🚫 Do NOT admit fault or apologize—stick to the facts.
🏥 Seek medical attention—some injuries (like TBI or internal bleeding) don’t show symptoms immediately.
📞 Call an attorney before speaking to any insurance company.

3. The Role of Truck Stops in Road Safety

Truck stops like Fuel America play a critical role in preventing impaired and fatigued driving. They should:
– Monitor for signs of impairment (slurred speech, stumbling, odor of alcohol).
– Provide safe alternatives for drivers who are unfit to operate a vehicle (e.g., shuttle services, overnight parking).
– Report suspicious behavior to law enforcement or trucking companies.
– Educate drivers on the dangers of impaired and fatigued driving.

Unfortunately, many truck stops prioritize profit over safety, allowing impaired drivers to refuel and re-enter the roadway. This must change.

How Attorney911 Can Help If You’ve Been Injured by an Impaired Driver

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for victims of trucking accidents, impaired driving crashes, and corporate negligence. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for clients across Texas, and our team includes former insurance defense attorneys who know exactly how trucking companies and insurers try to minimize claims.

Why Choose Attorney911?

Our Process for Trucking and Impaired Driving Cases

1. Immediate Evidence Preservation
   – We send spoliation letters to the trucking company, insurer, and all liable parties.
   – We demand preservation of ECM/black box data, ELD logs, maintenance records, and driver qualification files.
   – We secure surveillance footage, witness statements, and accident scene evidence before it disappears.

2. Comprehensive Investigation
   – Accident reconstruction to determine how the crash occurred.
   – FMCSA compliance review to identify regulatory violations (hours of service, drug testing, maintenance).
   – Driver background check to uncover prior violations, substance abuse history, or negligent hiring.
   – Corporate liability analysis to identify all potentially liable parties (driver, trucking company, cargo owner, manufacturer, etc.).

3. Medical and Financial Recovery
   – We connect you with top medical specialists to document your injuries.
   – We calculate full damages, including:

   • Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
   • Lost wages and earning capacity
   • Pain and suffering
   • Punitive damages (if gross negligence is proven)
   • We fight for maximum compensation—not the lowball offers insurers try to push.

4. Aggressive Litigation
   – We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial—insurance companies know we’re ready to fight.
   – We depose drivers, dispatchers, safety managers, and corporate executives.
   – We file lawsuits before the statute of limitations expires (2 years in Texas for personal injury).
   – We pursue punitive damages when trucking companies act with reckless disregard for safety.

Common Defenses We Counter in Impaired Driving Cases

Insurance companies and trucking companies will try to minimize or deny your claim using these tactics:

The Bottom Line: Impaired Driving Is Preventable—and Accountability Is Non-Negotiable

The arrest of Harley Quesada at the Fuel America Truck Stop is more than just a news story—it’s a wake-up call for Texas drivers, law enforcement agencies, and the trucking industry. Impaired driving is 100% preventable, and when it occurs—whether on-duty or off—it puts everyone on the road at risk.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen firsthand how impaired driving, fatigue, and corporate negligence can destroy lives. We’ve represented clients who suffered:
– Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) from high-speed collisions
– Spinal cord injuries and paralysis from rollover accidents
– Amputations from crushing impacts
– Severe burns from fuel fires
– Wrongful death of loved ones

These injuries don’t just heal—they change lives forever. And when they’re caused by negligence, justice demands accountability.

What You Can Do Now

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident, impaired driving crash, or any motor vehicle collision in Texas, time is critical. Evidence disappears quickly, and insurance companies move fast to protect their interests.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll:
– Evaluate your case and explain your legal options.
– Send spoliation letters to preserve critical evidence.
– Connect you with medical specialists to document your injuries.
– Fight for maximum compensation—so you can focus on healing.

Don’t wait. The trucking company’s lawyers are already working to protect them. You deserve someone fighting for you.

Final Thought: Justice Starts with One Call

Every year, thousands of Texans are injured in trucking accidents and impaired driving crashes. Many of them never recover the compensation they deserve because they don’t know their rights—or they wait too long to act.

At Attorney911, we believe justice starts with one call. If you’ve been hurt, you don’t have to fight alone. Our team—led by Ralph Manginello—has the experience, resources, and determination to hold negligent parties accountable.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911. We answer 24/7, and we’re ready to fight for you.

“The trucking company has lawyers. So should you. Don’t let them push you around—call Attorney911 today.” — Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner

Your fight starts here. 🚛⚖️