Drivers must share the roads with 18-wheeler trucks throughout the state of Texas. Because of this, accidents between standard passenger vehicles and trucks occur far too often. More specifically, the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety reported nearly 4,000 drivers being killed in trucking accidents in the year 2016 alone. Follow along to find out the most common causes of 18-wheeler accidents and how a proficient Corpus Christi, Texas truck accident lawyer at Sahadi Legal Group can help you through this difficult situation.
How are 18-wheeler accidents commonly caused in the state of Texas?
More often than not, truck drivers are on the road for many consecutive hours. With driving for long hours, truck drivers may become drowsy or fatigued, and therefore may have drastically impaired reflex time and decision-making skills. This is why the state of Texas does not permit truck drivers to drive more than 14 consecutive hours in a day or more than 70 consecutive hours in seven days. So, if a trucking company schedules a truck driver to be out on the road for longer than this allotted time period, then they may be considered the negligent party in an 18-wheeler accident.
But more commonly, the negligence of a truck driver is what causes an 18-wheeler accident. Examples of such behavior include the following:
- A truck driver drives while intoxicated.
- A truck driver drives while texting.
- A truck driver does not allow enough time to hit the brakes, make a turn, or yield at the right of way.
- A truck driver speeds or tailgates to meet their work deadlines.
- A truck driver fails to check large blind spots before merging or changing lanes.
- A truck driver fails to make a full stop before a railroad crossing.
- A truck driver fails to follow truck control devices or traffic signs.
- A truck driver fails to secure the truck’s equipment or load.
What injuries are commonly associated with truck accidents?
Because of the sheer size and weight of a truck compared to that of a standard passenger vehicle, the injuries that a driver may experience due to a truck accident can be devastating, if not fatal. Examples of such injuries include the following:
- A traumatic brain injury.
- A spinal cord injury.
- Paralysis.
- Nerve damage.
- Whiplash or a concussion.
- Broken or sprained bones.
- Lacerations.
So, you may be able to file a personal injury claim if you have suffered from any of the above injuries due to a truck accident that was of no fault of your own. This may just be the only way you can recover the financial compensation that you require to heal. If you are interested in your legal options, reach out to a talented Corpus Christi, Texas auto accident lawyer today.
