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Texas has more fatal truck accidents than any other state in the United States according to a recent report by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
In 2016, Texas had 484 fatalities in big truck accidents. The margin was significant as the next closest state was California with 293 people killed.
Perhaps it is because Texas is so large with over 3200 miles of interstate highways or the large numbers of trucks crossing the state. Whatever the reason, it is clear that the state of Texas has a significant problem concerning an 18-wheeler or tractor-trailer crashes.
The injury potential of a big rig accident is significant given the difference in size between a typical tractor-trailer and a passenger car. While a semi-truck can weigh 80,000 pounds, most passenger cars are in the 5000 pounds or less range. Needless to say, when a big rig it’s a small passenger car pickup truck it is the other vehicle that is in most jeopardy.
Also, because big trucks operate differently, they take much longer to stop than a car or pickup truck. Semi-trucks also have blind spots that are dangerous to the vehicles around them.
Trucking companies and commercial or professional truck drivers are regulated by the state of Texas and also by the Department of Transportation through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
Truck drivers are required to maintain unique records regarding the condition of their trucks and also are limited in the amount of time they can be on the clock behind the wheel. There are many other safety rules that the professional driver must follow, and the trucking company or motor carrier must ensure compliance.
Nevertheless, the regulation of motor carriers and drivers is not sufficient to reduce the number of fatal accidents in the state of Texas. Individual drivers must also take actions to keep their family’s safety.
Here are four ways to avoid an accident with an 18-wheeler.
We are very proud of our 30 years of exceptional results in truck accident lawsuits. Protecting your family’s future is our primary goal.
Many people say, “I was hit by an 18-wheeler and need an attorney“. If you find yourself in this situation in Texas, call us at 1-866-758-4529 for a no-obligation consultation about your rights and options.
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