San Bernardino County 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys: Your Fight for Justice Starts Here

The Inland Empire’s logistics corridor runs through the heart of San Bernardino County, where eighty thousand pounds of steel meets desert heat and mountain grades. When a commercial truck changes your life in an instant—whether on the I-10 stretch through Ontario, the Cajon Pass descent, or the warehouse districts of Fontana—you need more than a lawyer. You need a fighter who understands the federal regulations, the local terrain, and the devastation these crashes cause.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent over 25 years holding trucking companies accountable. Ralph Manginello, our managing partner since 1998, brings federal court experience and a track record of multi-million dollar verdicts to families across San Bernardino County. And here’s your advantage: our associate attorney Lupe Peña used to work for insurance defense firms. He knows exactly how trucking insurers evaluate, minimize, and deny claims—because he sat on their side of the table. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.

Call 24/7: 1-888-ATTY-911 or (888) 288-9911

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña para una consulta gratuita.

Why San Bernardino County Faces Unique Trucking Dangers

San Bernardino County isn’t just another stretch of highway. It’s the beating heart of the Inland Empire’s distribution network, serving as the primary warehousing and logistics hub for the entire Southwestern United States. Trucks rolling off the Port of Los Angeles and Long Beach barrel through our communities on I-10, I-15, and I-40, carrying everything from consumer electronics to hazardous materials through some of California’s most challenging terrain.

The geography creates perfect conditions for catastrophe. The Cajon Pass subjects trucks to steep grades where brake failure becomes a terrifying reality. Summer temperatures in Fontana and the desert communities regularly exceed 105°F, baking asphalt and causing tire blowouts on overloaded trailers. And with Amazon’s massive fulfillment centers, the Ontario International Airport cargo expansion, and the West Coast’s largest concentration of distribution centers, San Bernardino County sees more commercial truck traffic per capita than almost anywhere in California.

When an 18-wheeler jackknifes across the I-10 during Santa Ana wind conditions, or a fatigued driver loses control descending into San Bernardino, the results are devastating. These aren’t simple fender-benders. They’re life-altering events that demand immediate, aggressive legal response.

Federal Regulations That Protect You: Understanding FMCSA Compliance

Every trucking company operating in San Bernardino County must follow Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations under Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations. When carriers violate these rules, they create the dangerous conditions that cause catastrophic accidents. Proving these violations is often the key to establishing negligence and securing maximum compensation.

49 CFR Part 390: General Applicability

These regulations apply to all commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) over 10,001 pounds, vehicles transporting 16 or more passengers, or any vehicle carrying hazardous materials requiring placards. This means virtually every big rig on San Bernardino County highways falls under federal oversight.

Under 49 CFR § 390.3, motor carriers must ensure their operations meet safety standards. Violations here—such as operating without proper authority or failing to maintain required insurance—create immediate liability.

49 CFR Part 391: Driver Qualification Standards

Trucking companies cannot put just anyone behind the wheel. Under 49 CFR § 391.11, drivers must:

• Be at least 21 years old for interstate commerce
• Possess a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
• Pass a medical examination and carry a current Medical Examiner’s Certificate (49 CFR § 391.41)
• Be able to read and speak English sufficiently to understand traffic signs and communicate with law enforcement
• Have passed a road test or equivalent

Why this matters for your case: We subpoena the Driver Qualification File (49 CFR § 391.51) for every trucking accident in San Bernardino County. These files must contain the driver’s employment application, previous employer inquiries covering three years of driving history, motor vehicle records, and drug test results. If the trucking company hired a driver with a history of accidents, DUIs, or CDL suspensions, they can be held liable for negligent hiring—a direct violation of their duty to verify qualifications.

49 CFR Part 392: Driving of Commercial Motor Vehicles

This section contains the operating rules that prevent accidents. Critical violations we see on San Bernardino County roads include:

Fatigued Driving (49 CFR § 392.3): No driver may operate a CMV “while the driver’s ability or alertness is so impaired, or so likely to become impaired, through fatigue, illness, or any other cause, as to make it unsafe.” When a trucker pushes through the night to make delivery deadlines at the Fontana distribution centers, violating this regulation creates liability for both the driver and the company.

Following Distance (49 CFR § 392.11): Drivers must not follow other vehicles “more closely than is reasonable and prudent.” Given that an 80,000-pound truck traveling at 65 mph needs nearly 525 feet to stop—about two football fields—tailgating on the I-10 through Ontario is not just dangerous; it’s a federal violation.

Mobile Phone Use (49 CFR § 392.82): Hand-held phone use while driving is prohibited. We frequently subpoena cell phone records to prove drivers were texting or calling when they should have been watching the road.

Speeding (49 CFR § 392.6): Motor carriers cannot schedule routes that require drivers to exceed posted speed limits. When trucking companies pressure drivers to cover the 60-mile run from the ports to San Bernardino County warehouses too quickly, they violate federal law.

49 CFR Part 393: Parts and Accessories Necessary for Safe Operations

This section governs vehicle equipment and cargo securement—critical in a county where trucks haul heavy loads through mountain passes and desert heat.

Cargo Securement (49 CFR § 393.100-136): Cargo must be secured to prevent leaking, spilling, or shifting. The working load limit of tiedowns must equal at least 50% of the cargo weight. When a truck enters the Cajon Pass with improperly secured loads, shifting cargo can cause rollover accidents as the center of gravity changes on curves.

Brake Systems (49 CFR § 393.40-55): All CMVs must have properly functioning service brakes, parking brakes, and emergency brakes. Given the steep descents into San Bernardino Valley, brake failures here are often catastrophic. We investigate maintenance records to prove carriers deferred brake repairs to save money.

Tire Safety (49 CFR § 393.75): Minimum tread depth is 4/32″ for steer tires and 2/32″ for other positions. In San Bernardino County’s extreme heat—where asphalt temperatures can exceed 140°F—underinflated or worn tires frequently blow out, causing loss of control.

49 CFR Part 395: Hours of Service (HOS) Restrictions

These are the most commonly violated regulations—and the most deadly. Fatigued driving causes approximately 31% of fatal truck crashes.

The Rules:

• 11-Hour Driving Limit: Maximum 11 hours behind the wheel after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• 14-Hour Window: Cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
• 30-Minute Break: Required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• Weekly Limits: Cannot drive after 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days

Electronic Logging Devices (49 CFR § 395.8): Since December 2017, most trucks must use ELDs that sync with the engine to record driving time automatically. Unlike the old paper logbooks that drivers could falsify, ELDs provide objective evidence of Hours of Service violations.

Evidence preservation criticality: ELD data and ECM (Electronic Control Module) black box data can be overwritten within 30 days. When you hire Attorney911 for a San Bernardino County trucking accident, we send spoliation letters within 24 hours to preserve this evidence before the trucking company can destroy it.

49 CFR Part 396: Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance

Systematic Maintenance (49 CFR § 396.3): Carriers must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain all vehicles. This includes keeping records for 14 months showing what maintenance was performed and when.

Driver Inspection Reports (49 CFR § 396.11): Drivers must complete post-trip reports identifying defects in critical systems—brakes, steering, lighting, tires. If a driver noted brake issues but the company put the truck back on the road anyway, that’s direct evidence of negligence.

Annual Inspections (49 CFR § 396.17): Every CMV must pass a comprehensive annual safety inspection. Trucks operating without current inspection decals violate federal law.

Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in San Bernardino County

Not all trucking accidents are the same. The Inland Empire’s unique geography—mountain passes, desert heat, and massive freight volume—creates specific accident patterns. Here are the crashes we see most frequently across San Bernardino County:

Tire Blowout Accidents

The extreme heat of San Bernardino County summers—regularly exceeding 105°F in Fontana, Victorville, and the desert communities—creates deadly conditions for truck tires. Underinflated tires overheat, and worn treads separate, causing “road gators” (tire debris) that smash through windshields or cause multi-vehicle pileups.

When a steer tire (front tire) blows out at 65 mph on I-10, the driver loses control instantly. Trailers swing into adjacent lanes, causing chain-reaction crashes. We investigate tire maintenance records (49 CFR § 393.75) and loading records—overweight trucks stress tires beyond capacity.

Brake Failure on Mountain Grades

The Cajon Pass (I-15) and the grades descending into San Bernardino Valley are notorious for brake failure accidents. Trucks descending with overheated brakes experience “brake fade”—reduced stopping power just when they need it most. Runaway truck ramps exist for a reason, but not all drivers use them properly.

Under 49 CFR § 393.40-55, trucks must have properly adjusted brakes. We inspect maintenance records to see if carriers deferred brake repairs or if drivers skipped required pre-trip brake inspections (49 CFR § 396.13).

Jackknife Accidents

When a truck driver slams the brakes on slick pavement or takes a curve too fast, the trailer swings perpendicular to the cab, sweeping across multiple lanes. On the I-10 through Ontario—where sudden stops occur frequently due to traffic congestion from the warehouse district—jackknifes cause massive multi-vehicle accidents.

These accidents often stem from 49 CFR § 392.6 violations (speeding for conditions) or 49 CFR § 393.48 brake system failures.

Underride Collisions

When a passenger vehicle crashes into the rear or side of a trailer and slides underneath, the roof crushes, causing decapitation or catastrophic head trauma. Underride guards are required on trailers manufactured after January 26, 1998 (49 CFR § 393.86), but many trucks on San Bernardino County roads lack adequate protection.

Side underride remains particularly deadly—federal law doesn’t mandate side guards, though legislation has been proposed. When a truck makes a wide turn across lanes or changes lanes on the I-15 without seeing a vehicle in its blind spot, side underride accidents occur with devastating results.

Cargo Spill and Shift Accidents

San Bernardino County’s role as the West Coast’s distribution capital means trucks carry everything from electronics to hazardous materials. When cargo shifts during transport—especially on the curves of the Cajon Pass—rollover accidents result.

Under 49 CFR § 393.100-136, cargo must be secured to withstand 0.8g deceleration forward and 0.5g acceleration rearward and laterally. When loaders at San Bernardino County distribution centers rush to meet shipping deadlines and fail to properly secure loads, they create deadly hazards.

Blind Spot (“No-Zone”) Accidents

18-wheelers have massive blind spots: 20 feet in front, 30 feet behind, and significant zones on both sides—especially the right side. When trucks change lanes on the I-10 or make wide turns at intersections in Fontana or San Bernardino without checking mirrors, they strike vehicles they cannot see.

49 CFR § 393.80 requires mirrors that provide clear views to the rear. Improper mirror adjustment or damaged mirrors violate federal safety standards.

Rollover Accidents

Top-heavy trucks with liquid cargo (tankers) or improperly distributed loads roll over when drivers take curves too fast or overcorrect. The transition from the Cajon Pass into the flat valley creates dangerous rollover conditions. When a tanker rolls on the I-15 or I-215, the resulting spill can close highways for hours and cause environmental damage.

Rear-End Collisions

Trucks following too closely on the congested I-10 cannot stop in time when traffic slows entering Ontario or Rancho Cucamonga. Given the 525-foot stopping distance required for a loaded truck at highway speeds, tailgating is deadly—and a violation of 49 CFR § 392.11.

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Trucks making right turns in San Bernardino County’s urban areas must swing wide, creating a gap that smaller vehicles enter. When the truck completes its turn, the trailer crushes the vehicle against the curb. These accidents frequently occur at distribution center entrances and busy intersections where drivers fail to account for trailer swing.

Who Can Be Held Liable? The 10 Potentially Responsible Parties

Most personal injury firms only sue the driver and trucking company. That’s a mistake. In San Bernardino County’s complex logistics network, multiple parties often share blame—and multiple insurance policies mean higher compensation for your family.

1. The Truck Driver

Direct negligence includes speeding, distracted driving (cell phone use—49 CFR § 392.82), fatigued driving beyond HOS limits (49 CFR § 395), impaired driving, or failure to conduct pre-trip inspections. We obtain cell phone records, ELD data, and driving histories to prove negligence.

2. The Motor Carrier/Trucking Company

Under respondeat superior, employers are liable for employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Beyond vicarious liability, carriers are directly liable for:

• Negligent Hiring: Failing to verify CDL status, medical certification, or driving history
• Negligent Training: Inadequate safety training on mountain driving or cargo securement
• Negligent Supervision: Ignoring ELD violations or hours-of-service breaches
• Negligent Maintenance: Deferring brake repairs or tire replacements to cut costs

Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5 million in insurance—far more than individual drivers.

3. The Cargo Owner/Shipper

Companies shipping goods through San Bernardino County distribution centers may be liable if they required overweight loading, failed to disclose hazardous materials, or demanded unrealistic delivery schedules that forced HOS violations.

4. The Loading Company

Third-party warehouses in Fontana or Ontario that load cargo may be liable for 49 CFR § 393.100 violations—improper securement, unbalanced loads, or failure to use required tiedowns. When cargo shifts on the Cajon Pass and causes a rollover, the loading company shares blame.

5. The Truck/Trailer Manufacturer

Defective brake systems, steering mechanisms, or fuel tank placements that cause post-crash fires create product liability claims against manufacturers like Freightliner, Peterbilt, or trailer manufacturers.

6. The Parts Manufacturer

Defective tires, brake components, or steering parts that fail under stress may implicate parts manufacturers. Given San Bernardino County’s heat and grades, defective components fail catastrophically.

7. The Maintenance Company

Third-party mechanics who negligently repaired brakes, tires, or steering systems can be liable when their faulty work causes accidents. We subpoena work orders to prove corners were cut.

8. The Freight Broker

Brokers who arrange transportation between shippers and carriers may be liable for negligent selection—hiring carriers with poor safety records or inadequate insurance to save money on the San Bernardino County route.

9. The Truck Owner (if different from carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, the entity that owns the equipment may bear separate liability for negligent entrustment or failure to maintain the vehicle.

10. Government Entities

Caltrans or local municipalities may be liable for dangerous road design, inadequate signage on the Cajon Pass, or failure to maintain safe conditions on highways known for high truck traffic. Claims against government entities in California have specific notice requirements—usually within six months—making immediate legal consultation critical.

The Evidence That Wins Cases: 48-Hour Preservation Protocol

Critical timeline: Evidence in San Bernardino County trucking accidents disappears fast. Black box data overwrites in 30 days. Dashcam footage deletes automatically. Witnesses’ memories fade. And the trucking company has already called their rapid-response team to the scene.

When you call Attorney911, we act within 24 hours to preserve:

Electronic Data:

• ECM/EDR (black box) data showing speed, braking, and throttle position
• ELD (Electronic Logging Device) records proving hours-of-service violations
• GPS and telematics data showing route history
• Dashcam and forward-facing camera footage
• Qualcomm or fleet management communications

Driver Records:

• Complete Driver Qualification File (49 CFR § 391.51)
• Medical certification history
• Drug and alcohol test results (pre-employment and post-accident)
• Previous employer inquiries
• Training records

Vehicle Records:

• Maintenance and repair logs (49 CFR § 396.3)
• Pre-trip and post-trip inspection reports (49 CFR § 396.11)
• Tire replacement and brake adjustment records
• Annual inspection reports

Corporate Records:

• Dispatch logs showing schedule pressure
• Safety policies and CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) scores
• Previous accident history
• Insurance policies and coverage limits

The Spoliation Letter: We send formal preservation notices to all potentially liable parties immediately. Once they receive notice of potential litigation, destroying evidence constitutes spoliation—which can result in court sanctions, adverse inference instructions to the jury, or even default judgment.

California’s 2-Year Statute of Limitations: While you have two years from the accident date to file suit in California (California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1), waiting jeopardizes evidence. Contact us immediately after any San Bernardino County trucking accident.

Catastrophic Injuries and Your Recovery

The physics of an 80,000-pound truck striking a 4,000-pound passenger vehicle at highway speeds creates catastrophic, life-altering injuries. We understand these aren’t just “accidents”—they’re traumatic events that change everything.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Concussions, contusions, and diffuse axonal injuries from impact or violent shaking can cause permanent cognitive impairment. Symptoms include memory loss, confusion, personality changes, and inability to concentrate. San Bernardino County TBI victims require specialized neurological care and long-term rehabilitation. Our firm has recovered $1.5 million to $9.8 million for TBI victims.

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Damage to the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine can result in paraplegia or quadriplegia. Victims face lifetime medical costs exceeding $4.7 million to $25.8 million for high quadriplegia, including wheelchairs, home modifications, and 24-hour care.

Amputation

Crushing injuries in underride accidents or severe damage requiring surgical removal of limbs. Amputees face prosthetics costs, phantom limb pain, and permanent disability. We’ve secured $1.9 million to $8.6 million for amputation clients.

Severe Burns

Tanker explosions or fuel fires on the I-10 or I-15 cause third and fourth-degree burns requiring skin grafts, reconstructive surgery, and ongoing pain management.

Internal Organ Damage

Blunt force trauma causes liver lacerations, spleen rupture, and internal bleeding—injuries that may not show immediate symptoms but become life-threatening without emergency surgery.

Wrongful Death

When trucking accidents kill San Bernardino County residents, surviving families face funeral costs, lost financial support, and immeasurable emotional suffering. California law allows recovery for loss of companionship, funeral expenses, and future lost income. Our wrongful death settlements range from $1.9 million to $9.5 million.

California’s Pure Comparative Negligence: Even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages. Your award is simply reduced by your percentage of fault. This differs from states like Texas—San Bernardino County residents benefit from California’s more plaintiff-friendly rules.

Insurance Coverage and Your Rights

Federal law requires minimum insurance coverage far exceeding typical auto policies:

Many carriers operating in San Bernardino County carry $1 million to $5 million in coverage—sometimes more with excess policies. Unlike the $15,000 minimum for regular cars in California, these higher limits mean catastrophic injuries can actually be compensated.

Types of Recoverable Damages in California:

Economic Damages:

• Medical bills (past and future)
• Lost wages and lost earning capacity
• Property damage
• Rehabilitation and long-term care costs

Non-Economic Damages:

• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement
• Loss of consortium (for spouses)

Punitive Damages:
When trucking companies act with “reckless disregard” for safety—such as knowingly hiring drivers with suspended CDLs, falsifying logbooks, or deleting black box data—California juries can award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer. Unlike some states, California has no statutory cap on punitive damages for personal injury cases.

Nuclear Verdicts: Recent trucking verdicts across California and the West have reached staggering amounts—including a $411 million verdict in Florida and a $462 million Missouri underride case. While every case differs, these verdicts show what happens when juries hold trucking companies fully accountable.

Recent Case Results

We don’t just talk about results—we deliver them. Ralph Manginello and the Attorney911 team have secured:

• $5+ Million for a traumatic brain injury victim struck by a falling log at a logging operation
• $3.8+ Million for a client who suffered partial leg amputation after a car accident led to staph infection
• $2.5+ Million for a commercial trucking accident victim
• $2+ Million for a maritime worker with a back injury under the Jones Act
• $10+ Million lawsuit currently pending against the University of Houston for hazing—demonstrating our capability to take on powerful institutional defendants

As client Glenda Walker told us: “They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”

And Chad Harris put it simply: “You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”

Donald Wilcox came to us after another firm rejected his case. We took it on, and he later said: “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.”

Why San Bernardino County Families Choose Attorney911

25+ Years of Experience: Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He’s admitted to federal court in the Southern District of Texas and has litigated against Fortune 500 corporations like BP in the Texas City Refinery explosion case.

Insider Knowledge: Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, spent years working for national insurance defense firms. He knows exactly how trucking insurers calculate claim values, train adjusters to minimize payouts, and pressure victims to accept lowball offers. Now he uses that knowledge against them.

Federal Court Experience: Interstate trucking cases often belong in federal court. Our federal admission means we can take your case wherever it needs to go.

Three Office Locations: With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve clients nationwide. For San Bernardino County residents, we offer remote consultations and travel to California when necessary.

24/7 Availability: Truck accidents don’t happen on business hours. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 any time, day or night.

Hablamos Español: Lupe Peña provides fluent Spanish representation without interpreters. Many San Bernardino County families prefer to communicate in Spanish—we make that possible.

Contingency Fee Representation: You pay nothing unless we win. We advance all litigation costs. Zero upfront fees.

Frequently Asked Questions: San Bernardino County Trucking Accidents

1. How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a trucking accident in San Bernardino County?

California gives you two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit (California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1). However, evidence disappears much faster. Black box data can overwrite in 30 days, and dashcam footage may delete within weeks. Call immediately.

2. Can I still recover if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Yes. California follows pure comparative fault. You can recover damages even if you were 99% at fault—your award is simply reduced by your percentage of responsibility. Unlike some states where any fault bars recovery, California protects injury victims.

3. What should I do immediately after a truck accident on the I-10 or I-15?

Call 911, seek medical attention immediately, photograph the scene and all vehicles, get the driver’s CDL information and company details, collect witness contact information, and do not speak to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster. Then call Attorney911.

4. What is a “spoliation letter” and why does it matter?

It’s a legal notice demanding preservation of all evidence—black box data, ELD logs, maintenance records, driver files. Once we send this, the trucking company cannot legally destroy evidence. We send these within 24 hours of being retained.

5. Who can be sued besides the truck driver?

Potentially ten or more parties: the motor carrier, cargo owner, loading company, maintenance company, freight broker, parts manufacturers, and even government entities if road design contributed. More defendants mean more insurance coverage.

6. How much is my San Bernardino County trucking accident case worth?

Values depend on injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, and available insurance. Given the $750,000 to $5 million insurance minimums for trucks, catastrophic injury cases often settle or verdict in the high six to eight figures. We’ve recovered millions for clients.

7. What if the trucking company offers a quick settlement?

Never accept the first offer. Insurance companies make lowball offers before you understand the full extent of your injuries. Quick settlements rarely cover future medical needs or long-term disability.

8. How do you prove the truck driver was fatigued?

We subpoena Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records showing hours-of-service violations, cell phone records proving lack of sleep, and dispatch records showing unreasonable scheduling. 49 CFR § 395 violations create automatic negligence claims.

9. What makes San Bernardino County trucking accidents different?

The combination of extreme heat (causing tire blowouts), steep mountain grades (causing brake failure), and massive distribution center traffic (causing congestion and fatigue) creates unique dangers. You need attorneys who understand these local factors.

10. Will my case go to trial?

Most settle, but we prepare every case for trial. Insurance companies offer better settlements when they know your lawyer will go to court. Ralph Manginello has the federal court experience and trial readiness to maximize your leverage.

11. How long will my case take?

Simple cases: 6-12 months. Complex litigation involving multiple defendants or catastrophic injuries: 18-36 months. Factors include your medical recovery timeline and whether the defendant disputes liability.

12. Can I afford an attorney?

Yes. We work on contingency—33.33% pre-trial, 40% if trial is required. You pay nothing upfront. We advance all costs. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing.

13. What if my loved one was killed in a trucking accident?

You may file a wrongful death claim under California law. Eligible claimants typically include spouses, children, and parents. Damages include funeral expenses, lost financial support, and loss of companionship. The two-year statute of limitations still applies.

14. What if the trucking company’s insurance denies my claim?

We fight denials aggressively. Bad faith insurance practices can result in additional damages against the insurer. We’ve overturned wrongful denials through litigation.

15. Do I need a lawyer if the truck driver admitted fault?

Yes. Admitting fault is just the beginning. You need someone to calculate full damages, identify all liable parties, and ensure the insurance company doesn’t take advantage of you during a vulnerable time.

16. What is the MCS-90 endorsement and how does it help me?

It’s an insurance add-on guaranteeing minimum damage coverage for interstate commercial vehicles. Even if the trucker’s policy has exclusions, MCS-90 ensures victims receive compensation (49 CFR § 387).

17. How do you handle cases involving hazardous materials spills?

Tanker accidents involving chemicals or fuel create complex liability. We identify all responsible parties, including shippers who failed to disclose hazmat loads, and pursue the $5 million minimum insurance required for hazardous materials.

18. Can undocumented immigrants file trucking accident claims in California?

Yes. Immigration status does not affect your right to compensation for personal injuries in California. We handle these cases with discretion and fight for your rights regardless of status.

19. What if the truck’s brakes failed due to heat on the Cajon Pass?

Brake failure cases require immediate investigation of maintenance records. 49 CFR § 396.3 requires systematic maintenance. If the carrier deferred brake repairs or the driver ignored required inspections, they’re liable.

20. How do cargo shifts cause accidents on San Bernardino County highways?

Improperly secured loads shift on curves—particularly dangerous on the Cajon Pass or I-10 descent. 49 CFR § 393.100 requires cargo securement capable of withstanding 0.8g forward deceleration. We investigate the loading company’s procedures.

21. What’s the difference between a truck accident and a car accident case?

Complexity. Trucks have federal regulations, higher insurance minimums, multiple liable parties, and electronic data that must be preserved quickly. Standard car accident lawyers often miss these critical factors.

22. How do I choose the right trucking accident attorney in San Bernardino County?

Look for federal court experience, knowledge of FMCSA regulations, a track record of multi-million dollar results, and available references. Ask if they’ve handled cases involving ELD data and spoliation letters.

23. What if I can’t travel to your office?

We offer video consultations and can meet at your home, hospital, or rehabilitation facility. For San Bernardino County cases, we handle initial consultations remotely and travel to California when necessary for depositions and court appearances.

24. Do you handle cases where the truck driver fell asleep at the wheel?

Absolutely. Fatigued driving is a leading cause of trucking accidents. We prove violations of 49 CFR § 392.3 and § 395 through ELD data and company scheduling records.

25. What happens if the trucking company destroys evidence?

Courts can instruct the jury to assume destroyed evidence would have been unfavorable to the trucking company. We also seek punitive damages for intentional spoliation. This is why immediate legal action is critical.

Your Next Step: Call Attorney911 Today

The trucking company has lawyers working right now to minimize what they pay you. They have rapid-response teams, insurance adjusters trained to deny claims, and millions in coverage to protect.

You need someone who fights back.

Ralph Manginello has spent 25 years standing up to trucking companies and winning. Lupe Peña knows their playbook because he used to write it. Together, they provide the aggressive, knowledgeable representation that San Bernardino County families need after catastrophic trucking accidents.

Don’t wait. Evidence disappears. The clock is already ticking on California’s two-year statute of limitations, and critical black box data may be gone in 30 days.

Call Attorney911 now: 1-888-ATTY-911

Alternative: (888) 288-9911

Email: ralph@atty911.com
Web: https://attorney911.com

Hablamos Español. Llame ahora al 1-888-ATTY-911 para hablar con Lupe Peña.

We serve San Bernardino County, the Inland Empire, and nationwide from our Texas offices. From the Cajon Pass to the Ontario distribution centers, from Victorville to San Bernardino—we’ve got your back.

You are family to us. Let’s fight for every dime you deserve.