18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer Victoria: A 2026 Guide

Going up against a commercial trucking company can feel like a David versus Goliath battle. These are massive corporations with deep pockets, teams of aggressive lawyers, and huge insurance policies. Their goal is simple: protect their profits by paying you as little as possible. Facing them alone puts you at a severe disadvantage. You need a champion in your corner who is not intimidated by their size or resources. A skilled 18-wheeler accident lawyer in Victoria knows how to level the playing field, challenge their tactics, and fight tirelessly to ensure your voice is heard and your rights are protected throughout the entire legal process.

Key Takeaways

Truck accidents have unique complexities: Unlike car wrecks, these cases involve multiple at-fault parties (like the trucking company and cargo loaders) and are governed by complex federal regulations, which requires specialized legal knowledge.
Act quickly to preserve crucial evidence: After an accident, trucking companies work fast to protect themselves. Contacting a lawyer immediately ensures that time-sensitive evidence, such as the truck’s black box data and driver logs, is legally preserved for your case.
Expert legal help comes with no upfront cost: Reputable truck accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay absolutely nothing unless they win your case, removing any financial risk and allowing you to access top-tier representation.

What Makes 18-Wheeler Accidents So Complex?

After a collision with a commercial truck, you might assume the claims process is similar to a standard car wreck. The reality is that truck accident cases are in a league of their own. They are significantly more complicated due to the severe injuries often involved, the number of parties that could be responsible, and the specific federal laws that govern the trucking industry.

Successfully handling a truck accident claim requires a deep understanding of these unique challenges. The trucking company and its insurer have teams of investigators and lawyers ready to protect their interests from the moment a crash happens. Understanding what makes these cases so different is the first step in protecting your own rights.

Identifying Multiple At-Fault Parties

In a typical car accident, liability often falls on one or two drivers. But in a commercial truck crash, the net of responsibility can be cast much wider. The driver might be at fault, but they are rarely the only liable party. A thorough investigation could reveal that the trucking company failed to properly train its driver or pushed them to violate safety rules. The company that loaded the cargo may have created an imbalance, or a maintenance shop could have performed faulty repairs on the truck’s brakes. Even the truck’s manufacturer could be responsible for a defective part. Identifying every party that contributed to your accident is crucial for securing the full compensation you deserve.

Complex Federal Trucking Regulations

The trucking industry is heavily regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and Texas state laws. These rules cover everything from how many hours a driver can be on the road to how cargo must be secured and how often a truck must be inspected and maintained. When a trucking company or driver violates one of these regulations, it can serve as powerful evidence of negligence. However, proving these violations requires an attorney who is deeply familiar with this complex legal framework. An experienced personal injury lawyer knows how to find and use evidence from driver logs, maintenance records, and black box data to build a strong case.

Facing Aggressive Insurance Companies

Trucking companies are backed by massive insurance policies and powerful legal teams. Their primary goal is not your well-being; it’s protecting their profits by minimizing what they have to pay you. Immediately after an accident, their insurance adjuster will likely contact you. They might sound friendly and concerned, but they are trained to get you to say something that could hurt your claim or accept a quick, lowball settlement before you know the true extent of your injuries and expenses. Having a skilled attorney like Matthew Mandelker on your side levels the playing field, ensuring these aggressive tactics don’t work and that your rights are protected from the start.

What Causes 18-Wheeler Accidents in Victoria?

When a massive 18-wheeler is involved in a crash, it’s rarely a simple accident. These incidents are often the result of negligence, and the cause isn’t always immediately obvious. Several factors, from the driver’s condition to the truck’s maintenance history, can contribute to a devastating collision. Understanding these common causes is the first step in figuring out who is responsible for your injuries.

Driver Fatigue & Service Hour Violations

The pressure to meet tight deadlines can lead truck drivers and their employers to bend or break critical safety rules. Federal regulations strictly limit the number of hours a commercial driver can be on the road without a break. These “hours of service” rules exist for one reason: to prevent tired driving. Yet, violations are common, and a driver who is exhausted behind the wheel of an 80,000-pound truck is a serious danger. Investigating a truck accident often involves checking driver logs, electronic data, and company records to see if fatigue played a role in the crash.

Improperly Loaded or Unsecured Cargo

The way cargo is loaded and secured inside a trailer is just as important as the driver’s skill. When a truck’s load is unbalanced or not properly tied down, it can shift during transit. This sudden change in weight distribution can cause a driver to lose control, leading to a jackknife or rollover accident. Sometimes, the cargo itself can fall off the truck and create a hazard for other drivers. Determining who is at fault for “trucks that are loaded incorrectly” can be complicated, as it might be the trucking company, the driver, or a separate loading company.

Poor Truck Maintenance

Commercial trucks travel thousands of miles and require constant, thorough maintenance to operate safely. Unfortunately, some trucking companies prioritize profits over safety and cut corners on upkeep. Worn-out brakes, balding tires, broken headlights, and faulty steering are all examples of “poor truck maintenance” that can lead to catastrophic equipment failure. Federal law requires trucking companies to keep detailed maintenance records for their fleets. After a crash, our team can examine these records to uncover evidence of neglect and hold the responsible parties accountable for their failure to maintain a safe vehicle.

Distracted and Reckless Driving

Just like any other driver, truckers can be prone to distraction and recklessness. The difference is that a moment of inattention in a semi-truck can have much more severe consequences. “Drivers not paying attention” because they are texting, eating, or adjusting their GPS puts everyone at risk. Reckless behaviors like speeding, tailgating, or making aggressive lane changes are also major contributors to serious auto accidents. Proving this type of negligence often requires witness statements, police reports, and data from the truck’s onboard computer to build a strong case.

What to Do Immediately After a Truck Accident

The moments after a collision with an 18-wheeler are chaotic and overwhelming. It’s hard to think clearly, but the steps you take can make a huge difference for your health and your ability to recover fair compensation. If you’re ever in this frightening situation, try to focus on these critical actions.

Prioritize Medical Attention

Your well-being is the number one priority. Call 911 right away to report the accident and get paramedics on the scene. Even if you think you’re unhurt, you need to get checked by a medical professional. The adrenaline from a crash can easily mask serious injuries, and some conditions, like internal bleeding or concussions, don’t show symptoms immediately. Seeking prompt medical care not only protects your health but also creates an official record that connects your injuries to the accident. This documentation is essential for any future personal injury claim.

Document the Accident Scene

If you are physically able to, start gathering evidence at the scene. Trucking companies often dispatch their own investigators immediately, so it’s important to capture the scene before it’s altered. Use your phone to take as many photos and videos as possible. Document the damage to all vehicles, your injuries, the positions of the trucks and cars, and the surrounding area. Be sure to capture skid marks, road debris, weather conditions, and any relevant traffic signs. This visual evidence can be crucial for proving fault in complex truck accidents.

Gather Key Information

While at the scene, collect as much information as you can. Exchange contact and insurance details with the truck driver and anyone else involved. Make sure to get the driver’s name, license number, and the name of their employer. For the truck itself, look for a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) number, which is usually displayed on the cab, and write it down. If there are any witnesses, ask for their names and phone numbers. Their objective accounts of what happened can provide invaluable support for your case down the road.

Don’t Speak to Insurance Adjusters Alone

Soon after the accident, you will likely receive a call from the trucking company’s insurance adjuster. It’s important to be extremely cautious. The adjuster’s goal is to protect their company’s bottom line by minimizing or denying your claim. They may sound friendly and concerned, but they are trained to get you to say things that could hurt your case. You are not required to give them a recorded statement. Politely decline and tell them you will be speaking with an attorney. Let your lawyer handle all communications with the insurance company to protect your rights.

Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer Immediately

The sooner you have an experienced lawyer on your side, the better. The laws and regulations governing the trucking industry are complex, and trucking companies have aggressive legal teams ready to defend them. An attorney who specializes in 18-wheeler accidents can immediately begin their own investigation, preserve critical evidence like the driver’s logbooks and the truck’s black box data, and ensure your rights are protected. At Cap City Injury Attorneys, we know how to stand up to these large corporations and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us to discuss your case.

How Can a Victoria Truck Accident Lawyer Help?

After the shock and trauma of a collision with an 18-wheeler, the last thing you should have to worry about is fighting a legal battle. While you focus on healing, the trucking company and its massive insurance provider are already working to protect their bottom line. They have teams of adjusters and lawyers whose primary goal is to minimize or deny your claim. This is where a skilled truck accident lawyer becomes your most important ally.

Hiring an attorney isn’t just about having someone to file paperwork. It’s about leveling the playing field. A dedicated Victoria truck accident lawyer acts as your shield and your champion, handling every complex detail of your case from start to finish. We immediately take over all communication with the insurance companies, protecting you from their tactics and ensuring you don’t say anything that could be used against you. We manage deadlines, gather critical evidence, and build a powerful case designed to secure the full compensation you deserve. By taking this weight off your shoulders, we give you the space and peace of mind you need to focus on what truly matters: your recovery.

Investigate the Crash & Preserve Evidence

Evidence in a commercial truck accident case is incredibly time-sensitive. Key information can be lost, altered, or even destroyed in the days and weeks following a crash. A lawyer acts quickly to preserve everything needed to build a strong case. This goes far beyond the police report and photos from the scene. We send spoliation letters to the trucking company, legally demanding they preserve crucial evidence like the truck’s electronic data recorder (its “black box”), the driver’s hours-of-service logs, maintenance records, and post-accident drug and alcohol test results. This initial investigation is the foundation of your claim, helping us uncover any violations of federal trucking laws that contributed to the crash.

Identify All At-Fault Parties

In many car accidents, liability rests with a single driver. Trucking accidents are far more complex. The driver may be at fault, but they are often not the only responsible party. Our job is to identify every person or entity whose negligence contributed to your injuries. This could include the trucking company for pressuring the driver to violate safety rules, the cargo company for improperly loading the trailer, a mechanic for faulty repairs, or even the manufacturer for a defective truck part. Identifying all at-fault parties is critical because it provides more avenues to recover the compensation you need for your extensive medical bills, lost income, and long-term care.

Negotiate With the Trucking Company’s Insurer

Trucking companies carry large insurance policies, and their adjusters are trained negotiators skilled at protecting the company’s assets. They often make quick, lowball settlement offers to victims who are in a vulnerable financial and emotional state. An experienced lawyer understands the true value of your claim, which includes not just current medical bills but also future treatment, lost earning capacity, and your pain and suffering. We handle all negotiations, presenting a thoroughly documented demand package to the insurer. We know the tactics they use and will not let them undervalue your claim or pressure you into an unfair settlement. Our goal is to make sure you receive a settlement that truly covers all of your losses.

Take Your Case to Trial When Necessary

While the majority of personal injury cases are settled out of court, the insurance company may refuse to offer a fair amount. If that happens, you need an attorney who is ready and willing to take your case to trial. An insurer’s willingness to negotiate often depends on their assessment of your lawyer’s trial skills. At Cap City Injury Attorneys, our reputation as aggressive litigators like Matthew Mandelker shows insurance companies that we will not back down. If a lawsuit is necessary, we will file the complaint, manage the entire litigation process, and passionately argue your case before a judge and jury to fight for the justice you deserve.

What Compensation Can You Recover After a Truck Accident?

After a traumatic truck accident, no amount of money can truly undo the harm you’ve suffered. However, the goal of a personal injury claim is to secure financial compensation that covers your losses and helps you rebuild your life. This compensation, legally known as “damages,” is designed to make you financially whole again. In Texas, damages are typically broken down into three main categories. Understanding what you may be entitled to is the first step in fighting for a fair recovery. An experienced attorney can help you calculate the full extent of your losses to ensure nothing is overlooked.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are the most straightforward part of a truck accident claim because they cover your tangible, out-of-pocket financial losses. These are the costs that have a clear price tag and can be proven with receipts, bills, and pay stubs. We work diligently to document every single expense to build a strong case for your maximum recovery.

Common examples of economic damages include:

Past and future medical bills (ER visits, surgery, physical therapy, medication)
Lost wages from being unable to work
Loss of future earning capacity if your injuries affect your career
Property damage, such as repairing or replacing your vehicle
Costs for in-home care or modifications to your home

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages compensate you for the intangible, personal losses that don’t have a simple price tag. These damages address the profound human cost of an accident, like the physical pain and emotional suffering you endure. While harder to quantify, these losses are just as real and devastating as financial ones. A skilled attorney knows how to demonstrate the full impact the accident has had on your quality of life. Your story matters, and in a personal injury claim, it’s our job to make sure it’s heard.

These damages can include compensation for:

Pain and suffering
Mental and emotional anguish
Loss of enjoyment of life
Physical disfigurement or impairment
Loss of consortium (the impact on your relationship with your spouse)

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are different from the other two categories. They are not intended to compensate you for a loss but to punish the at-fault party for particularly reckless or malicious behavior. These damages are reserved for the most serious cases of misconduct and are meant to send a strong message that such actions will not be tolerated. For example, they might be awarded if a trucking company knowingly hired a driver with a history of DUIs or deliberately falsified maintenance logs for its fleet. While not awarded in every case, we will always investigate whether the defendant’s actions rise to the level of gross negligence that may warrant punitive damages.

Myths About Hiring a Truck Accident Lawyer

After a jarring 18-wheeler accident, the path forward can feel confusing. Misinformation and common myths often prevent victims from getting the help they deserve. It’s easy to second-guess yourself, but understanding the truth about the legal process is the first step toward protecting your rights. Let’s clear up a few misconceptions you might have about hiring a lawyer for your truck accident claim.

“I can handle the claim myself.”

It’s tempting to think you can manage your own claim, especially if the insurance company seems cooperative at first. However, truck accident cases are far more complex than a typical car wreck. They often involve multiple liable parties, from the driver to the trucking company, the cargo loader, and even the truck manufacturer. An experienced attorney knows how to investigate each angle and ensure you don’t settle for less than you deserve. Handling it alone means you might miss out on significant compensation for your personal injury claim because you weren’t aware of all the potential sources of recovery.

“Hiring a lawyer is too expensive.”

This is one of the most common and damaging myths. The fear of high legal bills shouldn’t stop you from getting expert help. At Cap City Injury Attorneys, we handle truck accident cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay absolutely nothing upfront. We cover all the costs of investigating and building your case. Our fee is a percentage of the compensation we recover for you, so we only get paid if you win. This arrangement ensures everyone has access to quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.

“The evidence will be saved automatically.”

In a perfect world, all evidence would be preserved, but that’s rarely the case. Trucking companies and their insurers have teams ready to manage the scene and protect their interests, not yours. Critical evidence like the truck’s black box data, driver logs, and maintenance records can disappear quickly if you don’t act fast. One of the most important first steps an attorney takes is sending a spoliation letter. This legal notice demands that the trucking company preserve all evidence related to the crash. Without it, the proof you need could be lost forever.

“Only major accidents need a lawyer.”

Even if you feel your injuries are minor, you should never underestimate the value of legal advice. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, and they will often try to get you to accept a quick, lowball settlement before the full extent of your injuries is known. Some injuries don’t show up for days or weeks after an accident. A lawyer will protect you from these tactics and ensure that any settlement accounts for your current and future medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Your well-being is not something you should ever have to compromise on.

How Long Will My Truck Accident Claim Take?

After a traumatic truck accident, it’s completely understandable to wonder how long it will take to get your life back on track. One of the first questions we hear is, “How long will my claim take?” While there’s no simple, one-size-fits-all answer, the timeline depends on several key elements of your case. Let’s walk through what you can expect.

Factors That Influence Your Timeline

The path your personal injury claim takes depends on a few key things. First is the severity of your injuries. We can’t resolve your claim until you’ve reached what’s called Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI), which is the point where your doctors know the full extent of your long-term medical needs. Another major factor is whether the trucking company accepts responsibility. If they dispute who was at fault, it will require a deeper investigation. A case where liability is clear and injuries are fully understood can sometimes settle in a few months, but more complex cases will naturally take longer.

Why Acting Fast Matters

While it’s tempting to wait until you feel better to think about legal matters, time is not on your side after a commercial truck accident. Trucking companies and their insurers have teams ready to protect their interests immediately. Critical evidence, like the truck’s black box data, driver logs, and maintenance records, can be legally lost or destroyed if you don’t act quickly. An experienced attorney can immediately send legal notices to preserve this crucial evidence for your case. The sooner you get help, the stronger your position will be when it comes to proving what happened and securing the compensation you deserve for your truck accident injuries.

How to Choose the Right Victoria Truck Accident Lawyer

After a collision with an 18-wheeler, you’re likely facing serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and a lot of uncertainty. Choosing a lawyer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during this time. It’s crucial to understand that not all personal injury attorneys are equipped to handle the unique challenges of a commercial truck accident case. These claims are far more complex than a typical car wreck, involving federal regulations, multiple liable parties, and large corporations with aggressive legal teams.

Finding the right legal partner can be the difference between a settlement that barely covers your bills and one that secures your financial future. You need an advocate who has the specific experience, resources, and dedication to fight for you. To help you make the best choice for your situation, here are the key factors to consider when selecting a Victoria truck accident lawyer.

Look for Specific Truck Accident Experience

When you’re interviewing potential attorneys, don’t just ask if they handle personal injury. Ask specifically about their experience with truck accidents. An experienced truck accident lawyer understands the industry and knows exactly what to look for when investigating a crash. They are familiar with tactics trucking companies use to avoid responsibility and aren’t afraid to go up against them.

A lawyer with a proven track record in this area will know how to obtain and analyze critical evidence like the driver’s logbooks, the truck’s “black box” data, and company maintenance records. Ask them about similar cases they’ve handled and their results. You want a firm that has successfully navigated these complex cases before and has the resources to build a powerful claim on your behalf.

Verify Their Knowledge of Federal Trucking Laws

The trucking industry is heavily regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and Texas state laws. These rules govern everything from how many hours a driver can be on the road to how cargo must be secured and how often trucks need inspections. A deep understanding of these regulations is non-negotiable for your attorney.

An experienced lawyer uses this knowledge to pinpoint violations that may have caused your accident. For example, if the driver violated hours-of-service rules or the company neglected required maintenance, it can serve as powerful evidence of negligence. Your attorney will use their expertise to investigate the crash thoroughly and build a strong case, ensuring that any broken rules are brought to light and used to strengthen your claim for compensation.

Assess Their Communication Style and Availability

The legal process can be long and stressful. The last thing you need is an attorney who is hard to reach or who leaves you in the dark. During your initial consultations, pay close attention to how the lawyer and their staff communicate with you. Do they listen to your story? Do they explain things clearly and without confusing legal jargon?

You deserve an attorney who is accessible and committed to keeping you informed. At Cap City, we believe in providing direct access to your attorney, not just a case manager. We intentionally take on fewer cases so we can give each client the personalized attention they deserve. Find a firm that makes you feel like a priority, not just another case file.

Understand Their Contingency Fee Structure

Many people worry about the cost of hiring a top-tier lawyer, but you shouldn’t let that stop you from getting the help you need. Most reputable truck accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay any upfront costs or out-of-pocket fees.

The attorney’s payment is “contingent” upon them winning your case. They receive a pre-agreed percentage of the settlement or verdict they obtain for you. If they don’t win, you owe them nothing for their time and effort. This arrangement removes the financial risk from your shoulders and shows that the law firm is confident in its ability to secure a successful outcome for your personal injury claim. Always ask for a clear explanation of the fee structure before signing any agreement.

Why Choose Cap City for Your Victoria Truck Accident Case?

After a traumatic truck accident, choosing the right legal team is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. You need a firm that not only has the experience to handle these complex cases but also treats you with the respect and attention you deserve. At Cap City Injury Attorneys, we combine fierce advocacy with a genuinely personal approach. We understand what’s at stake for you and your family, and we’re committed to guiding you through every step of the process with clarity and compassion.

Aggressive Representation With a Personal Touch

When you’re up against a large trucking company and its powerful insurance carriers, you need a lawyer who isn’t afraid to fight. We provide aggressive representation to ensure your case is handled professionally, giving you the best chance at securing the fair compensation you need to recover. But being aggressive in negotiations doesn’t mean being impersonal with you. We take on fewer cases so we can give each client our full attention. You’re never just a case file to us; you’re a person who deserves justice, and we’re here to help you get it. Our goal is to manage the legal burdens so you can focus on healing from your personal injury.

Direct Access to Your Attorney

Have you ever tried to get a straight answer and been passed from person to person? That won’t happen here. With Cap City, you get to talk directly to your lawyer, not just a case manager or paralegal. We believe clear and consistent communication is key to a strong attorney-client relationship. When you have questions about your case, you can speak with the attorney who is personally managing your file, like Matthew Mandelker or Chandler Wallace. This direct line of communication means you’ll always be informed and feel confident that your case is in capable hands.

You Don’t Pay Us Unless We Win

The last thing you should worry about after an accident is how to afford a lawyer. That’s why we operate on a contingency fee basis. This is our “no win, no fee” promise, and it means you don’t pay a single penny out of pocket to hire us. We cover all the upfront costs of investigating and building your truck accident case, from hiring experts to filing court documents. Our fee is a percentage of the compensation we recover for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing. This approach removes the financial risk from your shoulders and allows you to access top-tier legal representation when you need it most.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I can’t afford to hire a lawyer for my truck accident case? This is a very common concern, but it shouldn’t stop you from getting the help you need. We handle truck accident cases on a contingency fee basis. This simply means you pay absolutely nothing upfront for us to start working on your case. We cover all the costs of the investigation and litigation. Our fee is a percentage of the final settlement or verdict we secure for you, so we only get paid if we win your case. This approach removes the financial risk and ensures you have access to expert legal support.

The trucking company’s insurance adjuster seems nice and has already offered me a settlement. Should I take it? You should be very cautious. Insurance adjusters are trained to protect their company’s profits, and their primary goal is to settle your claim for the lowest amount possible. An early offer may seem tempting, but it rarely covers the full extent of your future medical needs, lost income, and pain and suffering. Accepting it means you give up your right to seek further compensation. It’s best to politely decline to give any statements or sign any documents until you have spoken with an attorney who can help you understand the true value of your claim.

How long will it take to resolve my truck accident claim? There isn’t a single timeline that fits every case, as the duration depends on a few key factors. The complexity of your injuries plays a big role; we need to wait until you have reached maximum medical improvement so we have a clear picture of your long-term needs. The timeline also depends on whether the trucking company accepts responsibility or disputes who was at fault. While a straightforward case might settle in several months, a more complex one that requires a lawsuit could take longer. Our priority is always to secure the best possible outcome for you, not just the fastest one.

I feel overwhelmed. If I hire an attorney, what will I be responsible for doing? Our goal is to take the legal burden completely off your shoulders so you can focus on one thing: your recovery. Once you hire us, we handle everything. This includes conducting a full investigation, preserving evidence, managing all communication with insurance companies, and handling all the legal paperwork and deadlines. Your main responsibility will be to attend your medical appointments and keep us updated on your progress. We will guide you through every step, but we will do the heavy lifting.

My accident seems straightforward. Why is it so important to investigate beyond just the truck driver’s actions? In a commercial truck accident, the driver is often just one piece of a much larger puzzle. A thorough investigation frequently reveals that other parties share the blame. For example, the trucking company may be liable for negligent hiring or for pushing its drivers to violate safety rules. A maintenance company could be at fault for faulty repairs, or a cargo loader could be responsible for creating an unstable load. Identifying every responsible party is crucial because it provides more avenues for securing the full compensation you need to cover all of your losses.

Matthew Mandelker

Matthew Mandelker is the Founder, CEO, and Managing Attorney of Cap City Injury Attorneys, bringing over 15 years of personal injury law experience in Texas to every case he handles. A graduate of St. Mary’s University School of Law, Matthew has served as a partner, sole practitioner, and associate at some of the largest personal injury firms in Texas, giving him a unique perspective on what great legal representation looks like. He founded Cap City Injury Attorneys to combine the sophistication of a major firm with the personalized service of a boutique practice, ensuring every client receives direct attorney access, honest communication, and relentless advocacy. When he is not fighting for his clients, Matthew can be found on Lake Travis or spending time with his 10-year-old twins, and that same dedication to family is the foundation of everything he does at the firm.

Why You Need an 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer in Victoria