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A big rig traveling on State Highway 249 in Harris County lost control and crashed into 11 vehicles. The 18-wheeler accident reportedly occurred when the driver of the 18-wheeler veered through an embankment that separates the highway from a feeder road. The rig ran through the barrier and onto the road at a high rate of speed, running into at least 11 vehicles, it was reported.
According to witnesses at the scene, the truck barreled off the road, hitting a pole and sign from a local restaurant. The truck hit at least 11 vehicles before it finally stopped in the restaurant’s parking lot. Some of the cars that were hit belonged to restaurant patrons who were not in their vehicles at the time of the crash.
At least five people were injured in the crash, including the truck driver. The truck driver and the driver of a black vehicle had to be airlifted to a hospital; one was reportedly in critical condition. Three other people were transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The area of the crash was closed for a few hours during cleanup. The cause of the accident is under investigation.
When big rigs collide with passenger vehicles, there can be devastating consequences. In this case, the truck was reportedly traveling at a high rate of speed when the crash happened. It is difficult for the truck to stop because big-rigs can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded. Also, 18-wheelers take longer to stop given the air brakes and size of the trucks.
Big rig crashes can happen for a number of reasons. Sometimes, more than one factor contributes to the crash. Some of the most common factors that might contribute to 18-wheeler accidents include distracted driving and driving while drowsy. There are restrictions regarding the number of hours a truck driver is allowed on the road in on stretch. However, sometimes drivers may drive longer than they should, and that could cause them to fall asleep at the wheel.
While we do not know the cause of this crash, it may have been due to sleepiness or to a medical problem that the truck driver suffered. The accident will be investigated to determine the cause. Investigators will look at the scene of the crash and the vehicles that were involved. They will interview witnesses and other drivers involved in the incident. The driver will be checked for use of drugs or alcohol and the log book will be reviewed to see how long the driver had been working.
When a big rig crash causes injury, the injured party may be entitled to compensation. If the truck driver or trucking company was negligent, they might be held responsible for medical bills as well as money for lost wages and pain and suffering and other legal damages. The law limits the time for victims to file a claim, so it is important to speak with a big rig accident attorney as soon as possible after the crash.
Contact the best lawyers for 18-wheeler accidents to discuss the details of your case today.
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