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South Dakota 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys: Attorney911 Delivers 25+ Years of Courtroom-Tested Trucking Litigation, Led by Ralph P. Manginello—Multi-Million Dollar Verdict Veteran, Former Insurance Defense Attorney Lupe Peña Exposes Their Tactics From the Inside, FMCSA Regulation Masters (49 CFR 390-399), Black Box & ELD Data Extraction Specialists, Jackknife, Rollover, Underride, Brake Failure & All Crash Types Covered, Traumatic Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Damage, Amputation & Wrongful Death Advocates—Federal Court Admitted, Same-Day Evidence Preservation, Free 24/7 Consultation, No Fee Unless We Win, 1-888-ATTY-911, Hablamos Español, Trusted Since 1998 by South Dakota Families Facing Catastrophic Trucking Collisions on I-90, I-29, and Rural Highways

February 4, 2026 31 min read
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18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers in South Dakota: Protecting Your Rights After a Devastating Truck Crash

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in South Dakota, you’re facing one of the most traumatic experiences of your life. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks make these accidents particularly devastating. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these crashes take on South Dakota families. Our experienced trucking accident attorneys are here to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Why South Dakota Trucking Accidents Are Different

South Dakota’s vast highways and interstates see heavy commercial truck traffic year-round. From I-90 stretching across the state to I-29 connecting to Canada, our trucking corridors are critical for commerce but also pose significant risks to motorists. The unique challenges of South Dakota trucking accidents include:

  • Extreme weather conditions that affect visibility and road traction
  • Long stretches of rural highways with limited emergency services
  • Seasonal tourism traffic from events like the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
  • Agricultural trucking with specialized cargo securement needs
  • Cross-border freight from Canada requiring additional regulatory compliance

When these factors combine with negligent trucking practices, the results can be catastrophic for South Dakota families.

The Devastating Impact of South Dakota Trucking Accidents

The physics of trucking accidents make them particularly dangerous. A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds – that’s 20-25 times heavier than the average passenger vehicle. When these massive vehicles collide with cars, motorcycles, or even other trucks, the results are often life-altering.

Common catastrophic injuries we see in South Dakota trucking accidents include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries that can cause permanent cognitive impairment
  • Spinal cord injuries leading to paralysis (paraplegia or quadriplegia)
  • Amputations from crushing forces or necessary surgical intervention
  • Severe burns from fuel fires or hazardous material spills
  • Internal organ damage requiring emergency surgery
  • Wrongful death leaving families devastated

The medical costs for these injuries can easily reach millions of dollars over a lifetime. That’s why it’s crucial to work with attorneys who understand how to maximize your recovery.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in South Dakota

Our attorneys have investigated hundreds of trucking accidents across South Dakota and identified the most common causes:

Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

South Dakota’s long-haul truckers often face pressure to meet tight delivery deadlines. Federal regulations limit driving time to prevent fatigue, but many drivers and companies ignore these rules. The Hours of Service (HOS) regulations include:

  • 11-hour driving limit after 10 consecutive hours off duty
  • 14-hour on-duty window maximum
  • 30-minute break required after 8 hours of driving
  • 60/70-hour weekly limits with 34-hour restart provision

When drivers violate these rules, they become dangerously fatigued. Studies show that being awake for 18 hours produces impairment equivalent to a blood alcohol concentration of 0.05%. After 24 hours without sleep, impairment equals 0.10% – well above the legal limit.

Improper Cargo Securement

South Dakota’s agricultural industry means many trucks carry specialized loads like grain, livestock, or equipment. When cargo isn’t properly secured according to 49 CFR § 393.100-136, it can shift during transit, causing:

  • Rollover accidents when the truck’s center of gravity changes
  • Cargo spills creating road hazards for other vehicles
  • Underride accidents when loose cargo extends beyond the trailer

The FMCSA requires cargo securement systems to withstand specific forces: 0.8g forward, 0.5g rearward and lateral, and 0.2g downward. Failure to meet these standards is a clear violation of federal regulations.

Brake Failures and Poor Maintenance

Brake problems are a factor in approximately 29% of large truck crashes. South Dakota’s varied terrain – from flat plains to mountainous regions – puts particular stress on braking systems. Common brake-related issues include:

  • Worn brake pads/shoes not replaced
  • Improper brake adjustment (too loose)
  • Air brake system leaks or failures
  • Overheated brakes (brake fade) on long descents
  • Contaminated brake fluid

Federal regulations (49 CFR § 393.40-55) require systematic inspection and maintenance of all brake systems. When trucking companies cut corners on maintenance, they put everyone on the road at risk.

Tire Blowouts

South Dakota’s extreme temperature variations and road conditions contribute to tire failures. Blowouts cause approximately 11,000 crashes annually nationwide. Factors contributing to tire blowouts include:

  • Underinflation causing overheating
  • Overloading beyond tire capacity
  • Worn or aging tires not replaced
  • Road debris punctures
  • Manufacturing defects

The FMCSA requires minimum tread depths of 4/32″ on steer tires and 2/32″ on other positions. Drivers must conduct pre-trip inspections to identify potential tire issues.

Distracted and Impaired Driving

Despite strict regulations, many truck drivers engage in dangerous behaviors:

  • Cell phone use (handheld phones are prohibited by 49 CFR § 392.82)
  • Texting while driving (prohibited by 49 CFR § 392.80)
  • Eating, drinking, or adjusting controls while driving
  • Drug or alcohol use (prohibited by 49 CFR § 392.4 and § 392.5)
  • Fatigue from HOS violations

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes of traffic. Common causes include:

  • Sudden or improper braking on slippery roads
  • Speeding on curves or in adverse conditions
  • Empty or lightly loaded trailers more prone to swing
  • Improper cargo loading

Underride Collisions

Underride accidents are among the most deadly trucking accidents. They occur when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the trailer, often shearing off the passenger compartment at windshield level. There are two main types:

  • Rear underride: Vehicle strikes the back of the trailer
  • Side underride: Vehicle impacts the side of the trailer during lane changes or turns

Federal regulations require rear impact guards on trailers manufactured after January 26, 1998, but there is currently no federal requirement for side underride guards.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a South Dakota Trucking Accident?

One of the most important aspects of trucking accident cases is identifying all potentially liable parties. Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple responsible parties:

The Truck Driver

The driver may be personally liable for negligent conduct such as:

  • Speeding or reckless driving
  • Distracted driving (cell phone use, texting)
  • Fatigued driving beyond legal limits
  • Impaired driving (drugs, alcohol)
  • Failure to conduct proper pre-trip inspections
  • Traffic law violations

The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

Trucking companies are often the most important defendants because they have the deepest pockets and highest insurance limits. They can be held liable through:

Vicarious Liability (Respondeat Superior):

  • The driver was an employee (not independent contractor)
  • Acting within the scope of employment
  • Performing job duties when the accident occurred

Direct Negligence:

  • Negligent Hiring: Failed to check driver’s background, driving record, or qualifications
  • Negligent Training: Inadequate training on safety, cargo securement, or hours of service
  • Negligent Supervision: Failed to monitor driver performance or ELD compliance
  • Negligent Maintenance: Failed to maintain vehicles in safe condition
  • Negligent Scheduling: Pressured drivers to violate HOS regulations

Cargo Owner/Shipper

The company that owns the cargo and arranged for its shipment may be liable for:

  • Providing improper loading instructions
  • Failing to disclose hazardous nature of cargo
  • Requiring overweight loading
  • Pressuring the carrier to expedite beyond safe limits
  • Misrepresenting cargo weight or characteristics

Cargo Loading Company

Third-party loading companies that physically load cargo may be liable for:

  • Improper cargo securement (49 CFR 393 violations)
  • Unbalanced load distribution
  • Exceeding vehicle weight ratings
  • Failure to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns
  • Not training loaders on securement requirements

Truck and Trailer Manufacturer

Manufacturers may be liable for defects in:

  • Brake systems
  • Steering components
  • Stability control systems
  • Fuel tank placement
  • Underride guards
  • Tires

Parts Manufacturer

Companies that manufacture specific parts (brakes, tires, steering components) may be liable for:

  • Defective brake components
  • Defective tires causing blowouts
  • Defective steering mechanisms
  • Defective lighting components

Maintenance Company

Third-party maintenance companies may be liable for:

  • Negligent repairs that failed to fix problems
  • Failure to identify critical safety issues
  • Improper brake adjustments
  • Using substandard or wrong parts
  • Returning vehicles to service with known defects

Freight Broker

Freight brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks may be liable for:

  • Negligent selection of carriers with poor safety records
  • Failure to verify carrier insurance and authority
  • Failure to check carrier CSA scores
  • Selecting the cheapest carrier despite safety concerns

Truck Owner (If Different from Carrier)

In owner-operator arrangements, the truck owner may have separate liability for:

  • Negligent entrustment of the vehicle
  • Failure to maintain owned equipment
  • Knowledge of the driver’s unfitness

Government Entity

Federal, state, or local government may be liable in limited circumstances for:

  • Dangerous road design that contributed to the accident
  • Failure to maintain roads (potholes, debris, worn markings)
  • Inadequate signage for known hazards
  • Failure to install safety barriers
  • Improper work zone setup

The Critical 48-Hour Window: Preserving Evidence in Your South Dakota Trucking Case

In trucking accident cases, evidence disappears quickly. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident. If you don’t act fast, critical evidence will be lost forever.

Why Time Is Critical

Evidence Type Destruction Risk
ECM/Black Box Data Overwrites in 30 days or with new driving events
ELD Data May be retained only 6 months
Dashcam Footage Often deleted within 7-14 days
Surveillance Video Business cameras typically overwrite in 7-30 days
Witness Memory Fades significantly within weeks
Physical Evidence Vehicle may be repaired, sold, or scrapped
Drug/Alcohol Tests Must be conducted within specific windows

Our Evidence Preservation Protocol

At Attorney911, we take immediate action to preserve evidence in every South Dakota trucking accident case:

  1. Send Spoliation Letters Within 24-48 Hours

    • Formal legal notice demanding preservation of all evidence
    • Sent to trucking company, insurer, and all potentially liable parties
    • Creates legal consequences for evidence destruction
  2. Demand Electronic Data Preservation

    • Engine Control Module (ECM) data
    • Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records
    • GPS and telematics data
    • Dashcam and forward-facing camera footage
    • Dispatch communications and messaging
    • Cell phone records and text messages
  3. Obtain Driver Records

    • Complete Driver Qualification File
    • Employment application and background check
    • Driving record and previous employers
    • Medical certification and drug test history
    • Training documentation
  4. Secure Vehicle Records

    • Maintenance and repair records
    • Inspection reports (pre-trip, post-trip, annual)
    • Out-of-service orders and repairs
    • Tire records and replacement history
    • Brake inspection and adjustment records
  5. Preserve Company Records

    • Hours of service records for 6 months prior
    • Dispatch logs and trip records
    • Bills of lading and cargo documentation
    • Insurance policies
    • Safety policies and procedures
  6. Secure Physical Evidence

    • The truck and trailer themselves
    • Failed or damaged components
    • Cargo and securement devices
    • Tire remnants if blowout involved

What ECM/Black Box Data Reveals

Commercial trucks have sophisticated electronic systems that record critical data:

Data Point What It Shows
Speed Before Crash Proves speeding or excessive speed for conditions
Brake Application Shows when and how hard brakes were applied
Throttle Position Reveals if driver was accelerating or coasting
Following Distance Calculated from speed and deceleration data
Hours of Service Proves fatigue and HOS violations
GPS Location Confirms route and timing
Fault Codes May reveal known mechanical issues driver ignored

This objective data often contradicts what drivers claim happened and can be the key to proving your case.

South Dakota-Specific Legal Considerations

South Dakota’s Comparative Negligence Rule

South Dakota follows a modified comparative negligence system with a 51% bar rule. This means:

  • If you are 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages
  • Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault
  • If you are 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover anything

For example:

  • If you are 20% at fault and your damages are $100,000, you recover $80,000
  • If you are 51% at fault, you recover nothing

This makes it crucial to work with attorneys who can minimize your attributed fault through thorough investigation and evidence gathering.

Statute of Limitations in South Dakota

South Dakota law gives you 3 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, you should never wait this long. Evidence disappears quickly, and the sooner we begin investigating, the stronger your case will be.

For wrongful death claims, the statute of limitations is also 3 years from the date of death.

Damage Caps in South Dakota

Unlike some states, South Dakota does not cap compensatory damages (medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering) in personal injury cases. This means juries can award full compensation for all your damages.

For punitive damages, South Dakota follows a pure comparative fault system, meaning there is no cap on punitive damages. Juries can award punitive damages without statutory limits, subject only to constitutional due process considerations.

The Attorney911 Advantage: Why Choose Our South Dakota Trucking Accident Lawyers?

25+ Years of Experience Fighting Trucking Companies

Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. With over 25 years of experience handling complex trucking cases, he knows how to hold large trucking companies accountable.

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who spent years working for a national defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny trucking accident claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.

Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, giving us the ability to handle complex federal cases. This is particularly important for interstate trucking accidents that may involve federal jurisdiction.

Multi-Million Dollar Results

We have recovered $50+ million for injury victims across Texas and beyond. Our track record includes:

  • $5+ million for a logging brain injury case
  • $3.8+ million for a car accident amputation case
  • $2.5+ million for a truck crash recovery
  • $2+ million for a maritime back injury case

Comprehensive Investigation Resources

We have the resources to thoroughly investigate your case:

  • Accident reconstruction experts to analyze crash dynamics
  • Forensic engineers to examine vehicle defects
  • Trucking industry experts to identify regulatory violations
  • Medical experts to document your injuries and future care needs
  • Economic experts to calculate lost earning capacity
  • Life care planners to develop comprehensive care plans

Aggressive Litigation Approach

We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court – and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys. Our willingness to take cases to trial creates leverage in settlement negotiations.

Personalized Attention

Unlike large billboard firms that treat you like a case number, we provide personalized attention. You’ll work directly with our attorneys, not just case managers or paralegals. We answer your calls and keep you informed every step of the way.

Bilingual Services

Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, providing direct representation without interpreters. We serve South Dakota’s Hispanic community with the same dedication we bring to all our clients.

What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident in South Dakota

If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in South Dakota, follow these critical steps:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even if you feel okay, get checked out by a doctor. Adrenaline masks pain after traumatic accidents, and some injuries (like traumatic brain injuries) may not show symptoms immediately. South Dakota hospitals like Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls and Rapid City Regional Hospital are equipped to handle severe trauma cases.

2. Call 911 and Report the Accident

File a police report, even for minor accidents. The police report creates an official record of the accident and often includes the officer’s determination of fault.

3. Document the Scene

If you’re able, take photos and video of:

  • All vehicle damage (inside and out)
  • The accident scene from multiple angles
  • Road conditions, weather, and visibility
  • Skid marks and debris patterns
  • Street signs and traffic signals
  • Your injuries

4. Collect Information

Get the following information from all parties involved:

  • Truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
  • Trucking company name and DOT number
  • Insurance information for all vehicles
  • Witness names and contact information

5. Don’t Give Statements to Insurance Adjusters

Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim. Politely decline to give a statement and refer them to your attorney.

6. Contact an 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney Immediately

The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can:

  • Send spoliation letters to preserve evidence
  • Investigate the accident scene
  • Interview witnesses while memories are fresh
  • Obtain critical electronic data before it’s overwritten
  • Protect your rights against insurance company tactics

Common Questions About South Dakota Trucking Accidents

How much is my South Dakota trucking accident case worth?

Case values depend on many factors, including:

  • Severity of your injuries
  • Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
  • Lost wages and earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Degree of the trucking company’s negligence
  • Insurance coverage available

Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents. We’ve seen verdicts ranging from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions in trucking cases.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit in South Dakota?

South Dakota’s statute of limitations gives you 3 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, you should never wait this long. Evidence disappears quickly, and the sooner we begin investigating, the stronger your case will be.

Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Our trial experience creates leverage in settlement negotiations. Insurance companies know we’re willing to go to court if necessary to get fair compensation for our clients.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

South Dakota’s comparative negligence system allows you to recover damages as long as you are 50% or less at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are 20% at fault and your damages are $100,000, you would recover $80,000.

How much does it cost to hire a trucking accident attorney?

We work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our fee comes from the settlement or verdict, not from your pocket. This makes legal representation accessible to everyone, regardless of financial situation.

What if the trucking company’s insurance offers me a quick settlement?

Quick settlement offers are almost always lowball offers designed to pay you far less than your case is worth. Never accept any settlement without consulting an experienced trucking accident attorney first.

Can I still recover compensation if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Yes. Even if the driver was an independent contractor, both the driver and the contracting company may be liable. We investigate all relationships and insurance policies to ensure you can recover from all responsible parties.

What if the trucking company goes bankrupt?

Trucking companies are required to carry liability insurance. Even if the company goes bankrupt, their insurance policy should still cover valid claims. We also explore other potentially liable parties to ensure you can recover compensation.

South Dakota Trucking Corridors: Where Accidents Happen Most

South Dakota’s major trucking corridors see heavy commercial traffic year-round:

I-90: The Transcontinental Highway

I-90 stretches 413 miles across South Dakota, connecting Rapid City in the west to Sioux Falls in the east. This major east-west corridor carries significant commercial traffic, including:

  • Long-haul freight between the West Coast and Midwest
  • Agricultural products from South Dakota farms
  • Tourism traffic to the Black Hills and Badlands
  • Hazardous materials shipments

Key danger points on I-90 include:

  • The Badlands area with sudden weather changes and wind gusts
  • Rapid City to Wall with heavy tourist traffic during summer months
  • Sioux Falls metro area with increased congestion
  • Construction zones that create sudden slowdowns

I-29: The North-South Connector

I-29 runs 252 miles through eastern South Dakota, connecting Sioux Falls to the Canadian border. This corridor carries:

  • Cross-border freight to and from Canada
  • Agricultural products from eastern South Dakota farms
  • Manufactured goods from Sioux Falls
  • Livestock shipments

Key danger points on I-29 include:

  • Sioux Falls metro area with heavy commuter traffic
  • The Sioux Falls to Brookings stretch with high-speed truck traffic
  • Construction zones near Sioux Falls and Brookings
  • Winter weather conditions that can create sudden icy patches

US-83: The Central Corridor

US-83 runs north-south through central South Dakota, connecting North Dakota to Nebraska. This route carries:

  • Agricultural products from central South Dakota farms
  • Oil and gas industry traffic
  • Local freight distribution

Key danger points on US-83 include:

  • The Pierre area with increased local traffic
  • Rural stretches with limited emergency services
  • Wildlife crossings that can cause sudden stops

US-14: The Northern Route

US-14 runs east-west across northern South Dakota, connecting Minnesota to Wyoming. This route carries:

  • Agricultural products
  • Local freight distribution
  • Tourism traffic to the Black Hills

Key danger points on US-14 include:

  • The Brookings area with increased local traffic
  • The Huron to Pierre stretch with long, straight sections that can lead to fatigue
  • Winter weather conditions that create sudden icy patches

US-18: The Southern Connector

US-18 runs east-west across southern South Dakota, connecting Iowa to Wyoming. This route carries:

  • Agricultural products
  • Local freight distribution
  • Tourism traffic to the Black Hills

Key danger points on US-18 include:

  • The Yankton area with increased local traffic
  • The Chamberlain to Murdo stretch with long, straight sections
  • Construction zones near Mitchell

Seasonal Factors Affecting South Dakota Trucking Safety

South Dakota’s extreme seasonal variations create unique challenges for truck drivers:

Winter Conditions

South Dakota winters bring:

  • Blizzards that reduce visibility to near zero
  • Black ice that creates invisible slippery patches
  • Extreme cold that can affect vehicle performance
  • High winds that can push high-profile trailers off course
  • Snowdrifts that can block roads suddenly

Truck drivers must:

  • Reduce speed significantly in winter conditions
  • Increase following distance
  • Use chains when required
  • Monitor weather reports continuously
  • Be prepared to stop at any time

Spring and Fall Transitions

Spring and fall bring:

  • Sudden temperature changes that create icy patches
  • Fog that reduces visibility
  • Wet road conditions that increase stopping distances
  • High winds that can affect vehicle stability

Summer Challenges

Summer months bring:

  • Tourist traffic from events like the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
  • Construction zones that create sudden slowdowns
  • Extreme heat that can cause tire blowouts
  • Agricultural equipment on rural roads
  • Thunderstorms with sudden heavy rain and hail

South Dakota Trucking Industry Overview

Understanding South Dakota’s trucking industry helps us build stronger cases for our clients:

Major South Dakota Trucking Companies

While we handle cases against all trucking companies, some major carriers operating in South Dakota include:

  • Smithfield Foods (agricultural and food products)
  • Dakota Carrier Network (regional freight)
  • RDO Equipment (construction equipment)
  • Various agricultural cooperatives (grain and livestock transport)
  • National carriers like Schneider, Werner, and J.B. Hunt that operate in South Dakota

South Dakota’s Agricultural Trucking

South Dakota is a major agricultural state, with trucking playing a crucial role in transporting:

  • Corn and soybeans from farms to processing facilities
  • Wheat from the state’s vast grain fields
  • Livestock to processing plants
  • Dairy products from South Dakota’s dairy farms
  • Ethanol from the state’s numerous ethanol plants

Agricultural trucking presents unique challenges:

  • Seasonal peaks during harvest create increased truck traffic
  • Specialized cargo securement requirements for different products
  • Rural road conditions that may not be well-maintained
  • Long distances between farms and processing facilities

South Dakota’s Oil and Gas Industry

Western South Dakota has oil and gas production that creates specialized trucking needs:

  • Oilfield equipment transport
  • Water hauling for hydraulic fracturing
  • Oil transport from production sites
  • Hazardous material shipments

Oilfield trucking requires:

  • Specialized training for drivers
  • Hazardous material endorsements on CDLs
  • Additional insurance coverage for hazmat loads
  • Strict compliance with federal and state regulations

Cross-Border Trucking with Canada

South Dakota’s proximity to Canada creates cross-border trucking opportunities and challenges:

  • Customs clearance requirements
  • Additional documentation for international shipments
  • Different regulations in Canada vs. the U.S.
  • Border crossing delays that can affect delivery schedules

How We Build Your South Dakota Trucking Accident Case

Our comprehensive approach ensures we build the strongest possible case for maximum compensation:

1. Immediate Evidence Preservation

  • Send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours
  • Demand preservation of ECM, ELD, and maintenance records
  • Secure physical evidence before repair or disposal

2. Thorough Investigation

  • Visit the accident scene to document conditions
  • Interview witnesses while memories are fresh
  • Obtain police reports and accident reconstruction data
  • Review surveillance footage from nearby businesses

3. Electronic Data Analysis

  • Download and analyze ECM/black box data
  • Review ELD records for HOS violations
  • Examine GPS and telematics data
  • Analyze cell phone records for distraction evidence

4. Driver and Company Records Review

  • Obtain complete Driver Qualification File
  • Review hiring, training, and supervision practices
  • Analyze maintenance records for deferred repairs
  • Examine company safety policies and procedures

5. Accident Reconstruction

  • Retain expert engineers to analyze crash dynamics
  • Determine speed, braking, and impact forces
  • Identify contributing factors and regulatory violations
  • Create visual exhibits for settlement negotiations and trial

6. Medical Documentation

  • Obtain complete medical records
  • Consult with treating physicians about prognosis
  • Retain medical experts to document injuries and future care needs
  • Develop comprehensive life care plans for catastrophic injuries

7. Economic Analysis

  • Calculate past and future medical expenses
  • Determine lost wages and earning capacity
  • Calculate future care needs for catastrophic injuries
  • Develop economic reports for settlement and trial

8. Settlement Negotiation

  • Prepare comprehensive demand package
  • Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies
  • Evaluate settlement offers against full case value
  • Advise clients on when to accept or reject offers

9. Litigation Preparation

  • File lawsuit before statute of limitations expires
  • Conduct aggressive discovery against all defendants
  • Take depositions of key witnesses
  • Prepare for trial while negotiating from position of strength

The Attorney911 Difference: What Sets Us Apart

We Know Trucking Companies’ Tactics

Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers operate. We know:

  • How they train adjusters to minimize claims
  • What makes them settle cases
  • How they try to deny liability
  • When they’re bluffing about their case evaluation
  • How to counter every tactic they use against you

We Fight for Maximum Compensation

We don’t settle for the first offer. We fight for every dollar you deserve, including:

  • Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
  • Lost wages and earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Disfigurement
  • Punitive damages when appropriate

We Handle the Legal Battle So You Can Focus on Recovery

Dealing with a serious injury is hard enough without having to fight insurance companies. We handle:

  • All communication with insurance adjusters
  • Paperwork and legal filings
  • Investigation and evidence gathering
  • Settlement negotiations
  • Litigation if necessary

This allows you to focus on your physical recovery and rebuilding your life.

We Offer Free, No-Obligation Consultations

If you’ve been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in South Dakota, call us for a free consultation. We’ll:

  • Review the facts of your case
  • Explain your legal options
  • Answer all your questions
  • Advise you on the best path forward

There’s no obligation, and we only get paid if we win your case.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in South Dakota, don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing every day. The trucking company has lawyers working to protect their interests – you need someone protecting yours.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free consultation with our South Dakota trucking accident attorneys. We’re available 24/7 to answer your call.

Remember:

  • Free consultation – no obligation
  • No fee unless we win – you pay nothing upfront
  • 25+ years of experience fighting trucking companies
  • Former insurance defense attorney on our team
  • We handle the legal battle so you can focus on recovery

Don’t let the trucking company get away with it. Call Attorney911 today and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

“They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
— Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client

“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”
— Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

“They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”
— Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client

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