Taylor County 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys

Fighting for Kentucky Trucking Accident Victims

The impact was catastrophic. One moment you’re driving through Taylor County on your way home from Campbellsville. The next, 80,000 pounds of steel has changed your life forever. On the winding corridors of Kentucky Highway 70 or the busy stretches of I-65 near the Green River, an 18-wheeler doesn’t give you time to react when the driver is fatigued, distracted, or simply driving too fast for conditions.

If you’re reading this from a hospital room in Louisville or recovering at home in Campbellsville after a trucking accident in Taylor County, you’re not alone—and you’re not without options. We’re Attorney911, and we’ve spent over 25 years fighting for families just like yours across Kentucky and beyond.

Why Taylor County Trucking Accidents Demand Immediate Action

Taylor County sits at a critical junction in Kentucky’s transportation network. With I-65 running along the western edge and Highway 70 serving as a major east-west artery through Campbellsville, our community sees a constant flow of commercial traffic. That convenience comes with a cost.

Every year, over 5,100 Americans die in crashes involving large trucks, and another 125,000 suffer serious injuries. In Kentucky alone, heavy trucks account for a disproportionate number of fatalities on our rural highways. When you’re hit by a tractor-trailer in Taylor County, the physics are brutal: your 4,000-pound sedan against an 80,000-pound commercial vehicle is never a fair fight.

We know these corridors. We know the weigh stations on I-65 where drivers sometimes skip required inspections. We know the agricultural traffic that converges on Campbellsville during harvest season. And we know that when a truck crashes on the sharp curves near Green River Lake, the results are often devastating.

That’s why Ralph Manginello, our managing partner with over 25 years of courtroom experience—including federal court admission to the Southern District of Texas—has made trucking litigation a cornerstone of our practice. We’ve gone toe-to-toe with the world’s largest corporations, including BP, and we’ve recovered multi-million dollar settlements for traumatic brain injury victims, amputees, and families devastated by wrongful death.

But here’s what you need to understand right now: the clock is already ticking.

The 48-Hour Evidence Crisis

Black box data can be overwritten in 30 days. Driver logs can be “edited” by dispatchers within hours. And the trucking company that hit you? They already have lawyers working to protect their interests—often before the ambulance even leaves the scene in Taylor County.

We send spoliation letters within 24 hours of taking your case. These legal notices demand preservation of:

• Electronic Control Module (ECM) data showing speed, braking, and throttle position
• Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records proving hours-of-service violations
• Driver Qualification Files (DQ Files) revealing hiring negligence
• Maintenance records exposing deferred brake repairs
• Dashcam footage that might show exactly what happened on that Taylor County highway

Critical timelines you can’t ignore:

• ECM data: Overwrites in 30 days or with subsequent driving events
• ELD records: FMCSA only requires 6-month retention
• Surveillance footage: Local businesses along Highway 70 typically overwrite in 7-14 days
• Witness memories: Fade significantly within weeks
• Physical evidence: Trucks get repaired, sold, or scrapped

In Kentucky, you have just one year from the date of your accident to file a lawsuit. That’s the shortest statute of limitations in the nation alongside Louisiana. Wait too long, and you lose your right to compensation forever—no matter how serious your injuries.

What does this mean for you? If you’ve been hurt in an 18-wheeler accident anywhere in Taylor County—whether on I-65 near the Marion County line or on the rural roads around Mannsville—call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911. Our team includes Lupe Peña, an associate attorney who spent years working for insurance companies before joining our firm. He knows exactly how trucking insurers try to minimize claims, and now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.

Understanding the Physics: Why Truck Accidents Cause Catastrophic Injury

An 18-wheeler traveling at 65 miles per hour needs nearly two football fields—approximately 525 feet—to come to a complete stop. That’s 40% more distance than a passenger car requires. When a truck driver is texting, fatigued, or simply following too closely on I-65 through Taylor County, there’s no room for error.

The math is brutal:

• Force = Mass × Acceleration
• An 80,000-pound truck carries roughly 80 times the kinetic energy of a standard sedan
• When that energy transfers to your vehicle in a crash, the results include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, and fatalities

We recently reviewed a case where a logging truck lost control on a Kentucky highway, striking a family sedan. The resulting traumatic brain injury required lifetime care costing over $3 million. In another case involving a commercial delivery vehicle on a rural Kentucky road, a client suffered a partial leg amputation due to the crushing force of the impact. We secured over $3.8 million for that client, but no amount of money erases the trauma.

Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Taylor County

Not all trucking accidents are the same. In Taylor County’s mix of interstate highway and rural agricultural roads, we see specific patterns that require specialized legal knowledge.

Jackknife Accidents

A jackknife occurs when the trailer swings perpendicular to the cab, often blocking multiple lanes of traffic. On I-65 near Taylor County, where traffic moves fast and sudden braking is common, jackknives often result from:

• Sudden braking on wet roads (common during Kentucky spring storms)
• Improperly loaded trailers with unbalanced cargo
• Driver fatigue causing delayed reaction times

These accidents frequently lead to multi-vehicle pileups. We look for FMCSA violations including 49 CFR § 393.48 (brake system deficiencies) and § 393.100 (improper cargo securement).

Rollover Accidents

With the rolling terrain around Green River Lake and the agricultural traffic moving through Taylor County, rollovers are tragically common. A truck carrying grain or livestock takes a curve too fast on Highway 70, and the high center of gravity causes the trailer to tip.

These accidents often violate 49 CFR § 392.6 (speeding for conditions) and § 393.100-136 (cargo securement standards). The injuries are catastrophic—crushing damage to vehicles beneath the trailer, fuel fires causing severe burns, and multiple fatalities.

Underride Collisions

Perhaps the most horrifying type of trucking accident, underrides occur when a passenger vehicle slides underneath the trailer, shearing off the roof at windshield level. Rear underride guards are required under 49 CFR § 393.86, but many trucks have inadequate or damaged guards. Side underride guards aren’t federally mandated yet, making side impacts particularly deadly.

If you’ve lost a loved one to an underride accident in Taylor County, justice requires holding the trucking company accountable for failing to install adequate safety equipment.

Rear-End Collisions

A fully loaded truck needs 20-40% more stopping distance than a car. When a truck follows too closely on I-65 or fails to anticipate traffic slowing near Campbellsville exits, the results are devastating. These cases often involve violations of 49 CFR § 392.11 (following too closely) and § 392.3 (operating while fatigued).

Wide Turn Accidents (“Squeeze Play”)

Large trucks need significant space to complete turns. When an 18-wheeler swings wide before turning right onto a rural Taylor County road, they create a dangerous gap that other vehicles enter. The truck then completes its turn, crushing the vehicle. These accidents violate basic safe driving rules under 49 CFR Part 392.

Blind Spot Accidents

Commercial trucks have massive blind spots—20 feet in front, 30 feet behind, and significant zones along both sides. When truckers change lanes on I-65 without checking mirrors, accidents happen. Federal law requires proper mirrors under 49 CFR § 393.80, and failure to use them constitutes negligence.

Tire Blowout Accidents

Heat buildup on Kentucky’s highways during summer months, combined with overloaded trailers, causes tire failures that send multi-ton vehicles careening out of control. These cases often reveal violations of 49 CFR § 393.75 (tire requirements) and § 396.13 (pre-trip inspection requirements).

Brake Failure Accidents

Brake problems factor into approximately 29% of large truck crashes. When a trucking company defers maintenance to save costs, they endanger everyone on Taylor County roads. We subpoena maintenance records to prove violations of 49 CFR § 393.40-55 (brake system requirements) and § 396.3 (systematic inspection requirements).

Who Can Be Held Liable in Your Taylor County Trucking Accident?

Most people assume only the driver is responsible. We dig deeper. In trucking cases, multiple parties often share liability, and more defendants mean more insurance coverage for your recovery.

The Truck Driver

We investigate:

• Cell phone records proving distraction
• ELD data showing hours-of-service violations
• Drug and alcohol test results (required under 49 CFR Part 382)
• Previous accident history and driving violations
• Medical certification status (required under 49 CFR Part 391)

The Trucking Company/Motor Carrier

Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are responsible for their employees’ negligence. Additionally, companies can be directly liable for:

• Negligent hiring: Failing to check the driver’s background, CDL status, or safety record
• Negligent training: Inadequate instruction on safety procedures, cargo securement, or hours-of-service rules
• Negligent supervision: Ignoring ELD violations or pressure to skip breaks
• Negligent maintenance: Deferring brake repairs or tire replacements to save money
• Negligent scheduling: Setting impossible delivery deadlines that force drivers to violate federal rest requirements

We obtain the Driver Qualification File (DQ File) required under 49 CFR § 391.51. Missing documents prove the company cut corners.

The Cargo Owner/Shipper

When a Taylor County agricultural business overloads a truck or fails to properly secure hazardous materials, they share liability. We examine bills of lading and loading instructions.

The Loading Company

Third-party warehouses that load trucks onto trailers at distribution centers along I-65 may be liable for improper weight distribution or inadequate tiedowns violating 49 CFR § 393.100-136.

The Truck or Parts Manufacturer

Defective brakes, tire blowouts caused by manufacturing flaws, or stability control system failures create product liability claims against manufacturers like Daimler, Paccar, or component makers.

The Maintenance Company

Third-party mechanics who perform negligent brake adjustments or return trucks to service with known defects violate their duty of care.

The Freight Broker

Brokers who arrange transportation but don’t own trucks may be liable for negligent carrier selection—choosing a trucking company with poor safety records to save money.

Government Entities

When dangerous road design, inadequate signage, or failure to maintain Kentucky highways contributes to an accident, state or local government may share liability—though sovereign immunity rules apply.

FMCSA Regulations That Protect Kentucky Drivers

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) governs all interstate trucking. These aren’t suggestions—they’re federal laws. When trucking companies violate them, they endanger Taylor County families.

49 CFR Part 390: General Applicability

Establishes that all commercial motor vehicles over 10,001 pounds operating interstate must comply with federal safety regulations.

49 CFR Part 391: Driver Qualification

Prohibits drivers from operating CMVs unless they:

• Are at least 21 years old (interstate)
• Hold a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
• Are medically qualified (vision, hearing, no disqualifying conditions)
• Have passed background checks and previous employer verification

Why this matters: If the driver who hit you shouldn’t have been behind the wheel, the trucking company is liable for negligent hiring.

49 CFR Part 392: Driving of Commercial Motor Vehicles

Prohibits:

• Operating while fatigued or ill (§ 392.3)
• Drug or alcohol use (§ 392.4-392.5)
• Speeding (§ 392.6)
• Following too closely (§ 392.11)
• Hand-held mobile phone use (§ 392.82)

49 CFR Part 393: Parts and Accessories for Safe Operation

Requires:

• Proper cargo securement (§ 393.100-136)
• Functional brake systems (§ 393.40-55)
• Adequate lighting and reflectors (§ 393.11-26)
• Rear impact guards to prevent underride (§ 393.86)

49 CFR Part 395: Hours of Service (HOS)

The most commonly violated regulations:

• Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off-duty
• Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
• Mandatory 30-minute break after 8 hours driving
• Maximum 60 hours in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days
• Electronic Logging Devices (ELD) required since December 2017

The smoking gun: ELD data proving a driver exceeded these limits often proves negligence per se.

49 CFR Part 396: Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance

Requires:

• Systematic inspection programs (§ 396.3)
• Pre-trip inspections by drivers (§ 396.13)
• Post-trip inspection reports (§ 396.11)
• Annual vehicle inspections (§ 396.17)

When companies skip these steps to save money, they risk lives on Taylor County roads.

Kentucky Law: Critical Deadlines and Rules

Statute of Limitations: Act Fast

Kentucky has a one-year statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death claims. This is the shortest in the nation. If you miss this deadline, you lose your rights forever.

The takeaway: Call us immediately after a Taylor County trucking accident. Evidence preservation and legal deadlines don’t wait for you to heal.

Pure Comparative Fault

Kentucky follows “pure comparative fault” rules. If you were partially at fault, you can still recover damages, reduced by your percentage of fault. Even if you were 99% at fault, you can technically recover 1% of your damages—though practically, strong cases involve clear liability on the truck driver.

Punitive Damages

Unlike some states, Kentucky does not cap punitive damages in trucking cases. When a company knowingly puts dangerous drivers on the road or destroys evidence, juries can award unlimited punishment damages.

Catastrophic Injuries and Your Recovery

Trucking accidents don’t cause simple injuries. The forces involved create lifelong disabilities.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

From concussions to permanent cognitive impairment, TBI affects memory, concentration, personality, and independence. Settlement ranges typically run from $1.5 million to $9.8 million depending on severity and age of the victim.

Spinal Cord Injury

Paraplegia and quadriplegia require lifetime care, home modifications, and specialized equipment. These cases often settle between $4.7 million and $25.8 million.

Amputation

Whether traumatic (at the scene) or surgical (due to crushing damage), limb loss requires prosthetics, rehabilitation, and career retraining. Settlements range from $1.9 million to $8.6 million.

Severe Burns

Fuel fires and hazmat spills cause disfigurement requiring years of reconstructive surgery.

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident takes a loved one, Kentucky law allows recovery for:

• Lost future income
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Mental anguish
• Funeral expenses
• Medical expenses incurred before death

Insurance Coverage: Why Trucking Cases Are Different

Federal law requires commercial trucking companies to carry:

• $750,000 for non-hazardous freight
• $1,000,000 for oil, petroleum, or large equipment
• $5,000,000 for hazardous materials

Compare that to Kentucky’s minimum auto insurance for passenger vehicles ($25,000), and you understand why trucking companies fight so hard to minimize claims. There’s real money at stake.

We identify all available coverage:

• Motor carrier liability policies
• Trailer interchange insurance
• Cargo insurance
• Excess/umbrella coverage
• Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage

Our Process: How We Build Your Taylor County Trucking Case

Phase 1: Immediate Response (0-72 hours)

• Accept case and send spoliation letters the same day
• Deploy accident reconstruction experts to Taylor County scenes
• Obtain police crash reports
• Photograph injuries and vehicles before repairs
• Identify all potentially liable parties

Phase 2: Evidence Gathering (Days 1-30)

• Subpoena ELD and ECM data downloads
• Request complete Driver Qualification Files
• Obtain maintenance and inspection records
• Analyze carrier CSA safety scores
• Order driver’s Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
• Subpoena cell phone records for distraction evidence

Phase 3: Expert Analysis

• Accident reconstruction specialists recreate the crash
• Medical experts establish causation and future care needs
• Vocational experts calculate lost earning capacity
• Life care planners develop comprehensive care plans
• FMCSA compliance experts identify regulation violations

Phase 4: Litigation Strategy

• File suit before the one-year Kentucky deadline
• Aggressive discovery against all defendants
• Depose drivers, dispatchers, safety managers, and maintenance personnel
• Prepare every case for trial to maximize settlement leverage

Frequently Asked Questions About Taylor County Trucking Accidents

What should I do immediately after an 18-wheeler accident in Taylor County?
Call 911, seek medical attention immediately, photograph the scene and vehicles, get the trucking company DOT number, collect witness information, and call Attorney911 before talking to any insurance company.

Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?
Never. Insurance adjusters work for the trucking company, not you. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows their tactics. Let us handle all communications.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit in Kentucky?
One year from the date of the accident. This is the shortest deadline in the nation. Do not delay.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Kentucky follows pure comparative fault. You can still recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault. Don’t assume you have no case—call us for a free evaluation.

How much is my trucking accident case worth?
It depends on injury severity, medical costs, lost income, and available insurance. Trucking companies carry $750,000 to $5 million in coverage. We’ve recovered multi-million dollar settlements for catastrophic injuries.

What is a spoliation letter and why does it matter?
It’s a legal notice demanding preservation of evidence. Without it, critical data like black box recordings and maintenance logs can be legally destroyed. We send these within 24 hours.

Will my case go to trial?
Most settle, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies offer better settlements when they know your attorney will go to court—and Ralph Manginello has 25 years of trial experience, including federal court.

How much does it cost to hire you?
Nothing upfront. We work on contingency—33.33% pre-trial, 40% if trial is necessary. You pay nothing unless we win. We even advance investigation costs.

Do you handle cases in Spanish?
Yes. Associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish. Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Taylor County Trucking Case?

We know you have choices. Here’s why Taylor County families choose us:

Ralph Manginello brings 25+ years of experience. Since 1998, he’s fought for injury victims, secured multi-million dollar settlements, and taken on Fortune 500 companies like BP.

We have insider knowledge. Lupe Peña used to defend insurance companies. Now he fights against them. He knows exactly how adjusters are trained to minimize your claim—and he counters every tactic.

We’re currently handling major litigation. Our $10 million lawsuit against the University of Houston demonstrates our willingness to take on powerful institutions when they endanger lives.

We treat you like family. As client Chad Harris said, “You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” Glenda Walker told us we “fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”

We take cases other firms reject. Donald Wilcox came to us after another company refused his case. We got him a settlement check.

Real results:

• $5+ million for traumatic brain injury (logging accident)
• $3.8+ million for amputation (car accident with medical complications)
• $2.5+ million for commercial trucking crashes
• $2+ million for maritime/Jones Act back injuries

24/7 availability. When disaster strikes, we’re here. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 any time, day or night.

Call Now: Protect Your Rights Before Evidence Disappears

The trucking company that hit you has already called their lawyers. Their insurance adjuster is already building a case against you. Evidence is disappearing daily. And Kentucky gives you just one year to act.

Don’t face this alone. With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve Taylor County, Kentucky clients with the dedication of local counsel and the resources of a major firm. Ralph Manginello’s federal court admission means we can handle complex interstate litigation wherever it leads.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now for a free consultation.

Or reach us toll-free at (888) 288-9911.

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911.

Your family’s future depends on what you do next. The trucking companies have teams of lawyers. You deserve a team that fights back harder.

Attorney911. Because trucking accidents change everything—but they don’t have to end everything.