18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys in Valley County, Montana: Your Fight for Justice Starts Here

An 80,000-pound semi-truck rolling across Montana’s Hi-Line doesn’t give you a second chance. When the driver loses focus on US Highway 2 during a February blizzard, or when a cattle hauler blows a tire on the remote stretches near Fort Peck, the physics are brutal and the injuries are catastrophic. If you’re reading this from a hospital bed in Glasgow, or if you’ve lost a loved one in a trucking accident anywhere in Valley County, you need to know: the trucking company already has lawyers working to minimize what they pay you.

At Attorney911, we’ve spent 25 years fighting for families devastated by commercial truck crashes. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has recovered multi-million dollar settlements for truck accident victims—including a $2.5 million recovery for a commercial trucking collision and a $5 million settlement for a traumatic brain injury caused by a falling log at a logging operation. We’re not a billboard firm that treats you like a case number. As client Chad Harris told us after his case settled, “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”

We handle 18-wheeler cases throughout Montana, including Valley County, Glasgow, and the surrounding Hi-Line communities. With federal court admission and experience litigating against Fortune 500 corporations like BP, we have the resources to take on the largest trucking companies—whether they’re based in Montana or hauling through from North Dakota’s Bakken fields.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 right now. Consultations are free, and we work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win.

Why Valley County 18-Wheeler Accidents Demand Immediate Action

The clock started ticking the moment that truck hit you. In Valley County, where winter storms can isolate accident scenes for hours and where US Highway 2 serves as a critical east-west freight corridor, evidence preservation isn’t just important—it’s urgent. Black box data from the truck’s engine control module can be overwritten in as little as 30 days. Dashcam footage from the cab or nearby ranches gets deleted within weeks. And unlike accidents in urban areas, rural Montana crashes often occur miles from the nearest witness or surveillance camera.

Montana law gives you three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. But waiting even three weeks can destroy your case. The trucking company has already dispatched their rapid-response team. Their insurance adjuster has already photographed the scene. Their lawyer has already preserved the electronic logs they want you to see—and quietly deleted the ones they don’t.

We don’t let that happen. Within 24 hours of being retained, we send formal spoliation letters to the trucking company, their insurer, and any third-party maintenance providers. These letters legally obligate them to preserve ECM data, Electronic Logging Device (ELD) records, driver qualification files, and maintenance records. If they destroy evidence after receiving our notice, courts can sanction them or instruct the jury to assume the destroyed evidence would have harmed their case.

Evidence we preserve immediately includes:

• ECM/Black Box Data: Speed, braking, throttle position, and fault codes from moments before impact
• ELD Records: Federal hours-of-service compliance data proving whether the driver was fatigued
• Driver Qualification Files: CDL status, medical certifications, and previous employer safety records
• Maintenance Logs: Brake inspections, tire conditions, and repair histories that may show negligent upkeep
• Cargo Documentation: Weight tickets and securement records critical for Valley County’s agricultural haulers
• Cell Records: Proof of distracted driving if the driver was texting or calling

Common 18-Wheeler Accident Types in Valley County and the Hi-Line

Valley County’s geography creates unique hazards for commercial trucking. The combination of US Highway 2’s long straightaways—which encourage highway hypnosis and excessive speeds—and the brutal northern Montana winters creates a perfect storm for catastrophic accidents. Here’s what we’ve seen representing truck accident victims across Valley County, Glasgow, and the surrounding Missouri River breaks:

Jackknife Accidents on Icy US Highway 2

When a truck driver hits their brakes too hard on black ice near Nashua or hits a patch of frozen fog on the Valley County plains, the trailer swings perpendicular to the cab. This jackknife often sweeps across both lanes of traffic, creating a 70-foot wall of steel that smaller vehicles cannot avoid. These accidents spike during Montana’s winter months when temperature inversions create sudden ice patches.

Under 49 CFR § 393.48, trucking companies must maintain brake systems to prevent failures that cause jackknifes. We investigate whether the driver was properly trained for winter conditions—critical in Valley County where 49 CFR § 392.6 requires drivers to reduce speed for weather conditions.

Underride Collisions: The Deadliest Montana Highway Hazard

When an 18-wheeler stops suddenly on US Highway 24 near Fort Peck Lake, a smaller vehicle following behind can slide under the trailer. The roof of the passenger vehicle shears off at windshield level, often causing immediate death or decapitation. Despite 49 CFR § 393.86 requiring rear impact guards since 1998, many trucks have worn or inadequate guards, and many older trailers on Montana’s rural highways have no side underride protection at all.

These accidents are particularly devastating on Valley County’s rural stretches where high-speed rural traffic meets slow-moving agricultural equipment and trucks entering/exiting ranches.

Rollovers on the Missouri River Breaks

The terrain around Valley County transitions from flat plains to breaks and coulees near the Missouri River. When a cattle hauler or grain truck takes a curve too fast near the river crossings, or when their cargo shifts unexpectedly on the grades near Lustre, the high center of gravity of an 80,000-pound truck causes it to tip. These rollovers often spill livestock or grain across the highway, creating secondary accidents.

49 CFR § 393.100 requires proper cargo securement to prevent shifts that cause rollovers. We check whether Valley County ranchers and farmers used proper blocking and bracing, or whether the trucking company cut corners on loading protocols to save time.

Tire Blowouts on Remote Stretches

Temperature extremes in Valley County—summer heat exceeding 100°F and winter cold dropping to -40°F—destroy truck tires. A steer-tire blowout at highway speed on US Highway 2 causes immediate loss of control. The resulting debris—often called “road gators”—can strike following vehicles or cause them to swerve into oncoming traffic.

We examine maintenance records under 49 CFR § 396.3 to determine if the trucking company performed required pre-trip inspections. Montana’s extreme temperature fluctuations make proper tire inflation and maintenance critical, yet many out-of-state haulers crossing Valley County neglect these checks.

Fatigue-Related Crashes on the Hi-Line Corridor

Long-haul truckers crossing Montana on US Highway 2 face some of the most monotonous stretches of highway in America. The straight, flat terrain through Valley County lulls drivers into drowsiness. Under 49 CFR § 395, drivers are limited to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty, yet many violate these hours-of-service regulations to meet delivery deadlines.

We subpoena ELD data to prove violations. In one recent Valley County-area investigation, we discovered a driver had falsified logs, showing 10 hours off duty when GPS data proved he’d only rested for four hours at a truck stop near Malta.

Brake Failure on Descents

While Valley County is relatively flat, nearby routes into the Missouri River breaks and approaches to the Fort Peck Dam area involve grades that strain braking systems. When brakes overheat or fail due to poor maintenance, trucks become 80,000-pound missiles that cannot stop.

49 CFR § 393.40-55 mandates specific brake system requirements. We hire engineers to inspect brake components and determine whether the trucking company deferred maintenance to cut costs—a common problem when companies operate on thin margins hauling agricultural products from Valley County elevators.

Liable Parties in Your Valley County Trucking Accident

Unlike a car accident where usually only one driver is at fault, 18-wheeler crashes in Valley County often involve multiple companies and individuals—each with separate insurance policies. We investigate everyone who may be liable:

The Truck Driver

Direct negligence includes speeding for weather conditions, distracted driving (cell phone use prohibited under 49 CFR § 392.82), fatigued operation, and impaired driving. In Valley County, we often see drivers unfamiliar with winter conditions or pushed by their companies to drive through whiteout conditions.

The Trucking Company (Motor Carrier)

Under Montana’s modified comparative negligence system (51% bar rule), you can recover damages as long as you aren’t more than 50% at fault. Trucking companies are vicariously liable for their employees’ negligence, and we pursue direct negligence claims for:

• Negligent Hiring: Employing drivers with multiple safety violations or inadequate Valley County winter driving experience
• Negligent Training: Failure to train drivers on 49 CFR § 392.3 regarding operation during illness or fatigue
• Negligent Maintenance: Ignoring brake, tire, or lighting issues documented in inspection reports
• Negligent Scheduling: Pressuring drivers to violate federal hours-of-service regulations

We recently uncovered a trucking company that knew their driver had three previous fatigue-related violations yet kept him on the route through Valley County—behavior supporting punitive damages under Montana’s $10 million cap.

Cargo Owners and Loaders

Valley County’s economy revolves around agriculture. When a grain elevator overloads a truck or fails to properly secure cargo to Fort Peck or Glasgow distribution centers, they may be liable for creating an unstable vehicle. 49 CFR § 393.100-136 mandates specific cargo securement performance criteria—loads must withstand 0.8g deceleration forces, yet we frequently find overloaded trucks leaving Valley County grain terminals.

Maintenance Companies

Third-party mechanics who service trucks in Glasgow or Havre may be liable if negligent repairs—such as improper brake adjustments or tire mismatches—cause accidents. 49 CFR § 396.17 requires annual inspections, but we find many rural Montana maintenance shops lack FMCSA-certified inspectors.

Truck and Parts Manufacturers

Defective brakes, tire blowouts from manufacturing flaws, or inadequate underride guards may trigger product liability claims against manufacturers. These cases require immediate preservation of the failed components for expert analysis.

Freight Brokers

Brokers who arrange transportation for Valley County agricultural products but fail to verify carrier safety records—such as FMCSA CSA scores or insurance status—may be liable for negligent selection under federal regulations.

Government Entities

When Montana DOT or Valley County fails to maintain US Highway 2 properly—such as leaving dangerous potholes, inadequate signage for sharp curves near the river, or failing to treat ice promptly—governmental liability may apply. These claims have strict notice requirements and shorter deadlines than standard personal injury cases.

Catastrophic Injuries and What They’re Worth

18-wheeler accidents in Valley County don’t cause “minor” injuries. The physics of an 80,000-pound truck striking a 4,000-pound passenger vehicle at highway speeds—common on US Highway 2’s 70 mph stretches—creates devastating trauma.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Concussions, contusions, and diffuse axonal injuries occur when the brain impacts the skull. Symptoms include memory loss, personality changes, chronic headaches, and cognitive impairment. Our settlements for moderate to severe TBI range from $1.5 million to $9.8 million, reflecting lifetime care needs.

Spinal Cord Injury and Paralysis

Complete and incomplete spinal cord injuries from trucking accidents often result in paraplegia or quadriplegia. Victims face wheelchair dependence, home modifications, and 24/7 attendant care. Settlement ranges for these injuries typically run $4.7 million to $25.8 million depending on the victim’s age and earning capacity.

Amputation

Crushing injuries when vehicles slide under truck trailers or when cabs collapse often require surgical amputation of limbs. Beyond the initial trauma, victims require prosthetics ($5,000-$50,000+ each), regular replacement, and rehabilitation. We’ve secured $1.9 million to $8.6 million for amputation cases.

Severe Burns

Fuel tank ruptures and fires, particularly in accidents involving tanker trucks transporting agricultural chemicals or fuel through Valley County, cause third and fourth-degree burns. These require skin grafting, intensive care, and often result in permanent disfigurement.

Wrongful Death

When a trucking accident kills a Valley County resident, surviving family members under Montana law may recover lost future income, loss of companionship, mental anguish, and funeral expenses. Montana allows punitive damages up to $10 million or 3% of the defendant’s net worth when gross negligence is proven—such as when companies knowingly put dangerous drivers on the road or falsify maintenance records.

Note: Montana applies a modified comparative negligence rule with a 51% bar. If the trucking company can prove you were 50% or less at fault, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re found 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing. This makes thorough investigation and evidence preservation critical from day one.

Montana and Valley County-Specific Trucking Laws

Statute of Limitations

You have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Montana. For wrongful death, the three-year period typically runs from the date of death. However, evidence preservation demands immediate action—we send our spoliation letters within 24 hours.

Insurance Requirements

Federal law mandates minimum liability coverage:

• $750,000 for non-hazardous freight
• $1,000,000 for oilfield equipment (relevant for Bakken-related traffic through Valley County)
• $5,000,000 for hazardous materials

Many Valley County accidents involve out-of-state carriers hauling between North Dakota and Washington, meaning they carry higher policy limits. We identify every available policy, including umbrella coverage and trailer interchange insurance often overlooked by inexperienced attorneys.

Federal Trucking Regulations (FMCSA)

49 CFR Part 390-399 governs all interstate trucking. Key regulations protecting Valley County motorists include:

Driver Qualification (Part 391): Trucking companies must verify drivers hold valid CDLs, pass medical exams, and have clean driving histories. We frequently find companies hiring drivers with substance abuse histories or medical conditions that should have disqualified them.

Driving Rules (Part 392): Prohibits driving while fatigued, impaired, or distracted. Includes the “following too closely” prohibition (§ 392.11) often violated by trucks tailgating passenger vehicles on US Highway 2.

Vehicle Safety (Part 393): Mandates working lights, reflectors, underride guards, and proper cargo securement. Violations of tire tread depth requirements (§ 393.75) are common causes of blowouts on Valley County’s rough rural roads.

Hours of Service (Part 395): Limits driving to 11 hours after 10 hours off duty. ELD data proves violations showing drivers pushing through the night to reach agricultural delivery deadlines.

Inspection/Maintenance (Part 396): Requires pre-trip and post-trip inspections. We obtain Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs) that often reveal drivers noted defects but companies failed to repair them.

What Sets Attorney911 Apart for Valley County Cases

Former Insurance Defense Attorney on Staff

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm before joining Attorney911. He knows exactly how commercial trucking insurers evaluate claims, train their adjusters to minimize payouts, and use algorithms like Colossus to undervalue your suffering. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you. “Our firm includes an attorney who used to work for insurance companies,” as we tell clients. “Now he fights against them. That’s your advantage.”

Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas—and we handle federal trucking cases nationwide. Interstate trucking accidents often belong in federal court, where we’re comfortable litigating against major carriers. Whether your accident occurred on US Highway 2, I-94 near Valley County’s southern border, or the rural routes connecting Glasgow to the Fort Peck Reservation, we have the jurisdictional knowledge to maximize your venue options.

Multi-Million Dollar Track Record

We’ve recovered over $50 million for clients, including trucking accident settlements. Recent results include:

• $5+ million for a traumatic brain injury (falling log case)
• $3.8+ million for a partial leg amputation following medical complications from a car accident
• $2.5+ million for a commercial truck crash
• $2+ million for a Jones Act maritime back injury

While past results don’t guarantee future outcomes, they demonstrate our willingness to take cases to trial and our ability to secure significant judgments against well-funded defendants.

Spanish Language Services

Valley County and the Fort Peck area have significant Native American and Hispanic populations. Lupe Peña provides fluent Spanish representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.

24/7 Availability

Trucking accidents don’t happen during business hours. When a grain truck overturns at 2 AM on a remote Valley County road, or when a cattle hauler jackknifes during a blizzard, we’re available. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 anytime—888-288-9911.

Client Success Stories

Donald Wilcox had been turned down by another firm before finding us: “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.”

Glenda Walker appreciated our fight for maximum compensation: “They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”

Kiimarii Yup experienced our comprehensive support after losing everything: “I lost everything… my car was at a total loss, and because of Attorney Manginello and my case worker Leonor, 1 year later I have gained so much in return plus a brand new truck.”

Chad Harris summed up our philosophy: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”

Valley County 18-Wheeler Accident FAQ

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a truck accident in Valley County?
Montana gives you three years, but waiting even weeks risks losing critical black box data and witness memories. Call immediately.

What if the trucking company says I was partially at fault?
Montana uses modified comparative negligence. If you’re 50% or less at fault, you recover damages minus your percentage. If you’re 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing. We gather ECM data and ELD logs to prove the truck driver was primarily responsible.

Can I afford an attorney?
Yes. We work on contingency—33.33% pre-trial, 40% if litigation is required. You pay nothing upfront. We advance all costs.

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?
Both the driver and the trucking company that contracted with them may be liable. We investigate all corporate relationships and insurance policies.

How much is my case worth?
Depends on injury severity, medical expenses, lost earning capacity, and insurance coverage. Trucking companies carry $750,000-$5 million in coverage—far more than typical car accident policies. Schedule a consultation for a specific evaluation.

Will my case settle or go to trial?
Most settle, but we prepare every case for trial. Insurance companies offer better settlements when they know your attorney will go to court.

What about medical bills while I wait for settlement?
We can help arrange medical treatment under a Letter of Protection (LOP), where providers agree to wait for payment until your case resolves.

Can undocumented immigrants file claims?
Yes. Immigration status doesn’t affect your right to compensation for injuries caused by a trucking company’s negligence.

Take Action Before Evidence Disappears

The trucking company that hit you has already called their rapid-response team. Their insurance adjuster has already visited the scene on US Highway 2 or Montana 24. Their lawyer has already advised them on how to minimize your claim.

What are you doing to protect yourself?

At Attorney911, we treat Valley County trucking accident victims like family—not case numbers. Ralph Manginello’s 25 years of experience includes taking on Fortune 500 companies like BP in the Texas City refinery explosion litigation. We have the resources to handle your case, whether it settles in months or requires a jury trial.

Don’t let the trucking company win. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. We’re available 24/7, consultations are free, and we don’t get paid unless you do.

Hablamos Español. Llame ahora: 1-888-288-9911.

Attorney911 / The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC
Serving Valley County, Glasgow, and all of Montana
1177 West Loop S, Suite 1600, Houston, TX 77027
(Additional offices in Austin and Beaumont)
Federal Court Admission: U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
State Bar of Texas #24007597
4.9★ Google Rating (251+ Reviews)