Were you hurt in a 18 wheeler accident today?
18 wheeler accidents are an unfortunate reality on the roads of Houston, Texas. The size and weight of these massive vehicles make them capable of causing severe damage and injury to smaller passenger cars, motorcycles, and pedestrians.
What are statistics on 18 wheeler accidents?
According to data from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), in 2019 alone, there were 5,738 accidents involving commercial vehicles in Harris County, which includes Houston.
Out of these accidents, 358 involved fatalities or incapacitating injuries.
The high rate of fatalities and injuries caused by 18 wheeler accidents in Houston has also been confirmed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
According to their Crash Query System, in 2019, there were 1,351 large truck crashes in the Houston metropolitan area, resulting in 89 fatalities and over 300 serious injuries.
One reason for the high number of 18 wheeler accidents in Houston is the city's status as a major transportation hub. Houston is home to the ports of Houston and Galveston, which are two of the busiest ports in the country.
As a result, thousands of commercial vehicles travel through Houston every day, increasing the risk of accidents on the city's roads and highways.However, the problem also lies in the behavior of 18 wheeler drivers.
Many drivers are overworked or undertrained, leading to fatigue, distraction, or reckless driving behaviors. Additionally, some trucking companies may push their drivers to meet unreasonable deadlines, causing drivers to speed or log too many hours without rest breaks.
How to prevent 18 wheeler accidents?
Safety tips for drivers to avoid 18 wheeler accidents:
- Always maintain a safe following distance from large trucks
- Use turn signals and give plenty of notice when changing lanes
- Avoid driving in the blind spots of 18 wheelers (on either side or directly behind the vehicle)
- Pay attention to the behavior of the truck driver, such as sudden braking, swerving, or driving erratically
- Ensure that your vehicle is in good working condition and all lights are functioning properly
If you or a loved one has been the victim of an 18 wheeler accident in Houston, it is important to seek legal counsel from an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
In conclusion, 18 wheeler accidents are a serious issue in Houston, Texas. Drivers must take precautions and regularly educate themselves on the best practices to ensure they are staying safe on the road. With this in mind, it's important to recognize that the driver of an 18 wheeler possesses a great responsibility on the road and must take as much care as possible to ensure the safety of the people around them.
Who do you call if you were hurt in18 Wheeler accident?
If you or your loved one has been involved in an 18 wheeler accident in Houston, Erik Smith PLLC is here to help. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are dedicated to helping you pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We understand the complexities of 18 wheeler accident cases and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and interests. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.