Why 18-wheeler wrecks are so bad

The truth of the matter is that big rigs or semi trucks are so much larger and heavier than the other traffic on our Texas highways that an accident with a big rig is usually a very bad accident.

A tractor can weigh up to 20,000 pounds without the trailer or a load. A tractor – trailer can easily weigh in at 80,000 pounds and can devastate cars and pickups even at moderate speed.

Seatbelts and airbags offer little protection when a vehicle weighing under 5000 pounds gets run over by one way and 80,000 pounds. There have been fatal truck accidents where the speed of the big rig was under 15 mph. Additionally, because a tractor – trailer is an articulated vehicle, the odds of the truck driver losing control after an emergency brake application is fairly large.

When you add in the fact that an 18 – Wheeler takes approximately 1/3 longer to stop than a passenger vehicle, it is easy to understand why truck drivers must be extremely safe in their driving. It is when truck drivers violate a rule that the public truly becomes endangered.

One of the most important rules that a professional truck driver must follow is the requirement that they inspect their tractor and trailer on a daily basis to ensure that it is in safe operating condition. The employer, the motor carrier is required to make certain that all of the trucks on the roadway under their banner RN safe and proper operating condition.

After a serious truck wreck, if the condition of the vehicle may have played any part in the accident, it is imperative that the attorney you select be prepared to inspect the vehicle with qualified experts on trucking regulations and big rigs.

The Baumgartner Firm has established itself as a leader in truck accident litigation, a reputation earned in the trenches over 25 years. We have the knowledge and experience to win truck accident cases.

It is not enough that the attorney you select has experience but the results they have achieved in truck wreck litigation should be analyzed to see if it is the best choice for protecting your family’s financial future.

Call the truck litigation law firm for a free no obligation consultation as soon as possible after an accident.

281-893-0760