Two 18-Wheelers Crash on Northbound I-35 in Burnet County, Texas: What Happened and What You Need to Know

Every year, thousands of trucking accidents occur on Texas highways. But when two 18-wheelers collide, the consequences can be catastrophic. On February 19, 2026, at approximately 8:43 PM, two commercial trucks crashed on northbound Interstate 35 near the New Road exit in Burnet County, causing a complete road closure and major traffic delays. While officials reported no major injuries, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that exist on Texas’s busiest trucking corridors.

At Attorney911, we’ve handled hundreds of trucking accident cases across Texas. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has over 25 years of experience fighting for victims of commercial vehicle crashes. This incident on I-35 highlights several critical issues that every Texas driver should understand about trucking safety, liability, and their legal rights.

The Incident: What We Know

According to reports, two 18-wheelers were traveling northbound on I-35 when they collided. The crash occurred near the New Road exit, causing the highway to be completely closed while emergency crews responded. The Waco Police Department reported that the scene was cleared later that evening, and fortunately, no major injuries were reported.

But here’s what most people don’t realize: even when no one appears seriously injured at the scene, the full extent of injuries from trucking accidents often doesn’t become apparent for days or even weeks. The adrenaline and shock from the collision can mask serious conditions like traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, or internal bleeding.

“We’ve seen cases where victims walk away from the scene thinking they’re fine, only to discover serious injuries later. That’s why it’s critical to seek medical attention immediately after any trucking accident—even if you feel okay.” — Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner, Attorney911

Why This Location Matters for Burnet County Drivers

Interstate 35 is one of the most dangerous highways in Texas. As the primary north-south corridor connecting Mexico to Canada, I-35 carries an enormous volume of commercial truck traffic through Central Texas. The stretch through Burnet County is particularly hazardous due to:

• High truck volume: I-35 is the main route for freight moving between San Antonio, Austin, and Dallas
• Challenging terrain: The Hill Country section includes curves and elevation changes that can be treacherous for large trucks
• Mixed traffic: Passenger vehicles share the road with fully loaded 18-wheelers weighing up to 80,000 pounds
• Construction zones: Ongoing infrastructure projects create additional hazards
• Fatigue risks: Long-haul drivers often push their hours of service limits on this corridor

The New Road exit area where this crash occurred is a particularly congested section. Trucks entering and exiting the highway must navigate lane changes while dealing with local traffic, creating multiple conflict points where accidents can occur.

The Most Common Causes of Multi-Truck Crashes

When two commercial trucks collide, the investigation typically reveals multiple contributing factors. Based on our experience handling trucking cases, these are the most likely causes in incidents like the I-35 crash:

1. Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations

Truck drivers are subject to strict federal regulations limiting their driving time. Under 49 CFR § 395, property-carrying drivers:

• Cannot drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• Cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
• Must take a 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving
• Are limited to 60 hours on duty in 7 days or 70 hours in 8 days

Despite these regulations, fatigue remains a leading cause of trucking accidents. Drivers face intense pressure from carriers to meet tight delivery schedules, often leading to violations of these safety rules.

How we prove fatigue in trucking cases:
– Obtaining Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data showing driving hours
– Reviewing dispatch records for unrealistic delivery schedules
– Analyzing GPS data for erratic driving patterns
– Checking for falsified log entries
– Examining the driver’s work history for patterns of overwork

“Fatigue slows reaction time as much as alcohol. When two 80,000-pound trucks collide at highway speeds, the results can be devastating. We’ve seen cases where drivers fell asleep at the wheel after being on duty for 18+ hours.” — Ralph Manginello

2. Improper Lane Changes and Blind Spot Collisions

Commercial trucks have massive blind spots—known as “No-Zones”—where the driver cannot see other vehicles. The right side blind spot is particularly dangerous, extending the entire length of the trailer and several lanes outward.

When two trucks collide, it often results from:
– One driver failing to check mirrors before changing lanes
– A driver merging into another truck’s blind spot
– Improper mirror adjustment
– Failure to signal lane changes

49 CFR § 392.11 requires drivers to exercise caution when changing lanes, but violations are common. In multi-truck crashes, we often find that both drivers contributed to the collision by failing to properly monitor their surroundings.

3. Speeding and Failure to Adjust for Conditions

While the speed limit on I-35 in this area is typically 70-75 mph, commercial trucks should often drive slower due to their size and weight. 49 CFR § 392.6 prohibits driving at speeds greater than what is reasonable and prudent for conditions.

Factors that should reduce truck speeds include:
– Wet or slippery roads
– Heavy traffic
– Construction zones
– Curves and hills
– Nighttime driving
– Poor visibility

When two trucks collide at high speeds, the force of impact can cause catastrophic damage to both vehicles and any nearby passenger cars.

4. Equipment Failures

Mechanical problems are a frequent cause of multi-truck crashes. Common equipment failures include:

• Brake failures: Worn or improperly adjusted brakes (49 CFR § 393.48)
• Tire blowouts: Underinflated or worn tires (49 CFR § 393.75)
• Lighting failures: Non-functioning headlights, taillights, or turn signals (49 CFR § 393.11)
• Steering failures: Worn components or lack of maintenance
• Coupling device failures: Trailer hitches or kingpins that fail

49 CFR § 396 requires systematic inspection and maintenance of all commercial vehicles. When we investigate trucking accidents, we often find that carriers cut corners on maintenance to save money.

5. Distracted Driving

Despite federal prohibitions, distracted driving remains a serious problem in the trucking industry. 49 CFR § 392.82 bans the use of hand-held mobile phones while driving, but violations are common.

Common distractions include:
– Texting or using smartphones
– Dispatch communications
– GPS devices
– Eating or drinking
– Adjusting controls
– External distractions

When two trucks collide, distracted driving by one or both drivers is often a contributing factor.

6. Cargo Securement Failures

Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, causing trucks to become unstable. 49 CFR § 393.100-136 establishes strict cargo securement requirements, but violations are common.

In multi-truck crashes, cargo issues can contribute by:
– Causing one truck to lose control
– Creating debris that other trucks must avoid
– Reducing a truck’s ability to maneuver or stop

Who Is Liable When Two Trucks Collide?

One of the most complex aspects of multi-truck crashes is determining liability. Unlike car accidents where typically only one driver is at fault, trucking accidents often involve multiple liable parties. In the I-35 crash, the following entities could potentially be held responsible:

1. The Truck Drivers

Both drivers may share liability for the collision. Common driver-related violations include:
– Speeding
– Following too closely
– Improper lane changes
– Distracted driving
– Fatigue
– Impaired driving

2. The Trucking Companies

Under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are liable for their employees’ negligent acts within the scope of employment. Both trucking companies could be held responsible for:

• Negligent hiring: Failing to properly vet drivers (49 CFR § 391)
• Negligent training: Inadequate safety training
• Negligent supervision: Failing to monitor driver performance
• Negligent maintenance: Poor vehicle upkeep (49 CFR § 396)
• Negligent scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate hours of service (49 CFR § 395)

“Trucking companies often try to distance themselves from their drivers’ actions, but the law holds them accountable. We’ve seen cases where carriers knowingly hired drivers with multiple violations on their records.” — Ralph Manginello

3. Cargo Loading Companies

If improper cargo loading contributed to the crash, the companies responsible for loading the trucks could be liable for:
– Overloading vehicles
– Uneven weight distribution
– Inadequate securement
– Failure to use proper blocking and bracing

4. Maintenance Providers

Third-party maintenance companies that serviced either truck could be liable if:
– They performed negligent repairs
– They failed to identify critical safety issues
– They used substandard parts

5. Truck and Parts Manufacturers

If equipment failure caused or contributed to the crash, manufacturers could be liable for:
– Defective brakes
– Faulty tires
– Malfunctioning steering components
– Defective coupling devices

6. Government Entities

In some cases, government agencies could share liability for:
– Poor road design
– Inadequate signage
– Failure to maintain safe road conditions
– Improper traffic control in construction zones

The Investigation: What Evidence Matters Most

In trucking accident cases, evidence disappears quickly. Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of a crash. If you’re involved in a trucking accident, it’s critical to act fast to preserve evidence.

Critical Evidence in Multi-Truck Crashes

“We send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours of being retained to preserve this evidence. Once it’s gone, it’s gone forever, and that can destroy your case.” — Ralph Manginello

How We Investigate Multi-Truck Crashes

At Attorney911, our investigation process is designed to uncover all liable parties and preserve critical evidence:

1. Immediate Evidence Preservation
   – Send spoliation letters to all potentially liable parties
   – Demand immediate download of ECM and ELD data
   – Secure physical evidence before it’s repaired or destroyed

2. Accident Reconstruction
   – Retain expert engineers to analyze the crash dynamics
   – Examine skid marks, vehicle damage, and road conditions
   – Create computer simulations of the collision

3. Regulatory Compliance Review
   – Obtain FMCSA safety records for both carriers
   – Review hours of service compliance
   – Check for previous violations and out-of-service orders

4. Driver Background Investigation
   – Obtain complete Driver Qualification Files
   – Review driving records and previous employers
   – Check for patterns of violations or accidents

5. Vehicle Inspection
   – Conduct thorough post-crash vehicle inspections
   – Identify mechanical failures that contributed to the crash
   – Check for compliance with FMCSA safety standards

6. Corporate Liability Analysis
   – Review hiring, training, and supervision practices
   – Examine maintenance records and policies
   – Investigate dispatch practices and scheduling pressure

The Legal Process: What to Expect

If you’re involved in a trucking accident like the I-35 crash, understanding the legal process can help you navigate what comes next.

Step 1: Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, get checked out by a doctor. Many serious injuries don’t show symptoms immediately. Medical records will also be critical evidence in your case.

Step 2: Report the Accident

File a police report. In Texas, you’re required to report any accident that causes injury, death, or property damage that prevents a vehicle from being driven.

Step 3: Document Everything

• Take photos of all vehicles involved
• Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, and any visible injuries
• Get contact information from witnesses
• Keep all medical records and bills
• Document how the accident has affected your daily life

Step 4: Contact an Experienced Trucking Accident Attorney

Trucking cases are complex and require specialized knowledge. An experienced attorney can:
– Preserve critical evidence before it’s destroyed
– Identify all liable parties
– Handle communications with insurance companies
– Build a strong case for maximum compensation

Step 5: Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation, including:
– Obtaining and analyzing black box data
– Reviewing driver logs and qualification files
– Examining maintenance records
– Consulting with accident reconstruction experts

Step 6: Demand and Negotiation

Your attorney will send a demand letter to the insurance companies outlining:
– The facts of the case
– The legal basis for liability
– The full extent of your damages
– The compensation you’re seeking

Step 7: Litigation (If Necessary)

If a fair settlement can’t be reached, your attorney will file a lawsuit and prepare for trial. Most cases settle before trial, but your attorney should be prepared to take your case to court if necessary.

Step 8: Resolution

Your case may be resolved through:
– Settlement negotiation
– Mediation
– Arbitration
– Trial verdict

Potential Injuries in Multi-Truck Crashes

While the I-35 crash fortunately didn’t result in major injuries, multi-truck collisions often cause catastrophic harm. The size and weight disparity between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles means that when trucks collide, the forces involved can cause devastating injuries.

Common Injuries in Trucking Accidents

The Hidden Costs of Trucking Accident Injuries

Beyond the immediate medical bills, trucking accident injuries often result in:
– Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
– Ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation
– Home modifications for disabilities
– Pain and suffering
– Emotional trauma
– Loss of enjoyment of life

“We’ve seen cases where victims require millions of dollars in lifetime care. That’s why it’s so important to have an attorney who understands how to calculate the full value of your claim.” — Ralph Manginello

Case Value: What’s Your Claim Worth?

The value of a trucking accident claim depends on many factors. While every case is unique, understanding the components of damages can help you understand what compensation you may be entitled to.

Types of Damages in Trucking Accident Cases

Factors That Affect Case Value

Several factors influence the value of a trucking accident claim:

1. Severity of Injuries: More severe injuries result in higher medical costs and greater pain and suffering.
2. Liability: Clear liability increases case value; disputed liability decreases it.
3. Insurance Coverage: Higher policy limits allow for larger recoveries.
4. Defendant’s Conduct: Reckless or intentional conduct can lead to punitive damages.
5. Jurisdiction: Some courts are more favorable to plaintiffs than others.
6. Quality of Legal Representation: Experienced attorneys typically achieve better results.

Recent Trucking Accident Verdicts and Settlements

While we can’t predict the value of any specific case, recent verdicts demonstrate what’s possible when trucking companies are held accountable:

“These verdicts show that juries are willing to hold trucking companies fully accountable when they prioritize profits over safety. The key is building a strong case with solid evidence.” — Ralph Manginello

Why You Need an Experienced Trucking Accident Attorney

Trucking accident cases are among the most complex personal injury claims. They require specialized knowledge of:

• Federal trucking regulations (49 CFR Parts 390-399)
• Commercial insurance policies and coverage limits
• Accident reconstruction techniques
• Trucking industry practices and standards
• Corporate liability theories

At Attorney911, we have the experience and resources to handle these complex cases:

• 25+ years of trucking litigation experience (Ralph Manginello)
• Federal court admission (U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas)
• Former insurance defense attorney on staff (Lupe Peña)
• Multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements
• Extensive network of expert witnesses
• Deep knowledge of FMCSA regulations

“Our team includes Lupe Peña, who used to work for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers try to minimize claims—and now he uses that knowledge to fight for victims.” — Ralph Manginello

What to Do If You’re Involved in a Trucking Accident

If you or a loved one is involved in a trucking accident, follow these steps to protect your health and your legal rights:

At the Scene

1. Call 911 and report the accident
2. Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine
3. Document the scene with photos and video
   – All vehicles involved
   – License plates and DOT numbers
   – Road conditions and traffic signs
   – Visible injuries
   – Skid marks and debris
4. Get information from all parties involved
   – Names and contact information
   – Insurance information
   – Trucking company information
   – Driver’s license and CDL numbers
5. Collect witness information
   – Names and phone numbers
   – Statements about what they saw
6. Do NOT admit fault or apologize
7. Do NOT give statements to insurance adjusters

After the Accident

1. Follow up with medical treatment and keep all appointments
2. Document everything
   – Medical records and bills
   – Time missed from work
   – How the accident has affected your daily life
3. Do NOT post on social media about the accident or your injuries
4. Contact an experienced trucking accident attorney immediately
5. Preserve evidence
   – Keep all damaged property
   – Save all medical records
   – Do not repair your vehicle until it’s been inspected

The Attorney911 Difference

When you choose Attorney911 to handle your trucking accident case, you’re getting more than just legal representation. You’re getting a team that:

• Treats you like family: “You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.” — Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client
• Fights for maximum compensation: “They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.” — Glenda Walker, Attorney911 Client
• Takes cases other firms reject: “I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Manginello law firm were able to help me out.” — Greg Garcia, Attorney911 Client
• Solves cases faster than competitors: “They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.” — Angel Walle, Attorney911 Client
• Provides direct attorney access: “Ralph reached out personally.” — Dame Haskett, Attorney911 Client

“We’ve recovered over $50 million for Texas families devastated by trucking accidents. When you call us, you’re getting a team that knows how to win against the biggest trucking companies.” — Ralph Manginello

Frequently Asked Questions About Trucking Accidents

What should I do immediately after a trucking accident?

If you’re able, call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene with photos, get witness information, and contact an attorney. The most important thing is to preserve evidence before it disappears.

How long do I have to file a trucking accident lawsuit in Texas?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is 2 years from the date of the accident. However, you should never wait this long. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases, and the sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.

Who can be held liable in a trucking accident?

Multiple parties may be liable, including:
– The truck driver
– The trucking company
– The cargo loading company
– Maintenance providers
– Truck and parts manufacturers
– Government entities

What is a spoliation letter and why is it important?

A spoliation letter is a legal notice demanding that all parties preserve evidence related to the accident. This includes black box data, ELD records, maintenance logs, and more. Sending this letter immediately puts the trucking company on notice that destroying evidence will have serious legal consequences.

How much is my trucking accident case worth?

Case value depends on many factors, including:
– Severity of injuries
– Medical expenses
– Lost wages
– Pain and suffering
– Liability
– Insurance coverage

While we can’t predict the value of any specific case, recent trucking accident verdicts in Texas have ranged from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions of dollars.

Will my case go to trial?

Most trucking accident cases settle before trial. However, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach gives us leverage in settlement negotiations and ensures we’re ready to fight for you in court if necessary.

How long will my case take to resolve?

Timelines vary depending on the complexity of the case:
– Simple cases: 6-12 months
– Complex cases: 1-3 years
– Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while ensuring you receive maximum compensation.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. As long as you’re not more than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Can I handle my trucking accident case without an attorney?

Technically yes, but it’s extremely risky. Trucking companies have teams of lawyers working to minimize your claim. An experienced attorney levels the playing field and typically achieves significantly better results.

What if the trucking company offers me a quick settlement?

Never accept a quick settlement offer without consulting an attorney. These offers are almost always lowball attempts to pay you far less than your case is worth. Once you accept a settlement, you waive your right to additional compensation.

The Bottom Line: Protect Your Rights After a Trucking Accident

The I-35 crash in Burnet County serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that exist on Texas highways. When two 80,000-pound trucks collide, the consequences can be catastrophic. If you or a loved one is involved in a trucking accident, remember:

1. Evidence disappears fast – Black box data, ELD records, and dashcam footage can be overwritten or deleted within days.
2. Trucking companies have teams of lawyers – They begin protecting their interests immediately after a crash.
3. Multiple parties may be liable – Don’t assume the driver is the only responsible party.
4. Your injuries may be more serious than they seem – Many trucking accident injuries don’t show symptoms immediately.
5. You need an experienced trucking accident attorney – These cases are too complex to handle alone.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against some of the largest trucking companies in America. We know how to preserve evidence, identify all liable parties, and build strong cases that maximize compensation.

“When disaster strikes on Texas highways, you need a Legal Emergency Lawyer™ who fights like your future depends on it—because it does.” — Attorney911 Tagline

Take Action Now

If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking accident in Burnet County or anywhere in Texas, don’t wait. Evidence is disappearing every hour. The trucking company’s insurance adjusters are already working to minimize your claim.

Call Attorney911 now for a free, no-obligation consultation:

📞 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
📞 Direct: (713) 528-9070
📧 ralph@atty911.com
🌐 https://attorney911.com

We answer calls 24/7. Hablamos Español.

“Don’t let the trucking company push you around. We know their tactics because we used to work for them. Now we fight against them—and we win.” — Lupe Peña, Associate Attorney, Attorney911

Learn more about trucking accident cases in our video guides:
– The Victim’s Guide to 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries
– Can I Sue for Being Hit by a Semi Truck?
– The Definitive Guide To Commercial Truck Accidents
– Truck Tire Blowouts and When You Need a Lawyer
– What Should You Not Say to an Insurance Adjuster?

Remember: The trucking company has lawyers. So should you. Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. Your future depends on it.