18-Wheeler Accidents on the Rise
Earlier this month an 18-wheeler accident in Lake Charles left one dead, again bringing into question how dangerous highways have become. The two 18-wheelers owned by Suppleer Services, LLC went off the right guardrail on the I-10 bridge, resulting in the death of Jack C. Powell of Vinton. According to the Lake Charles Police, Powell was heading westbound in the right-hand lane when he noticed a cab stopped on the bridge. As he moved to the left lane in order to avoid the stopped vehicle, he struck another 18-wheeler driven by Lolly J. Comeaux of Westlake. Both trucks then hit the center barrier before ricocheting off the edge of the bridge. Comeaux and Powell were taken to a local hospital where Powell eventually succumbed to his injuries.
Texas Highways The Site of More Accidents
18-wheeler accidents like this one are an all-too-common sight on Dallas highways like I-30, I-35, and I-10. In fact, Texas sees more large commercial truck accidents than any other state. In the United States, there are an estimated two million big rig trucks and about 500,000 accidents involving 18-wheelers every single year. Of these accidents, an estimated 5,000 result in death. Furthermore, large truck accidents result in 130,000 injuries every single year in the U.S.
Commercial trucks are an important part of our economy, but these vehicles also post numerous threats to other drivers because of their sheer size and volume. Accidents involving 18-wheelers, like the Lake Charles incident mentioned above, happen quite frequently and are often the result of driver negligence or mistakes. In many cases, smaller passenger vehicles are also involved, resulting in serious, life-threatening injuries or death. When an 18-wheeler is involved in an accident with another large truck or a passenger vehicle, they often result in serious injuries or death. Trucking and insurance companies are prepared to fight your claim, doing everything they can to protect their reputation, even if it comes at the expense of the accident victim. This is why you need an experienced and trustworthy large truck accident attorney. We will help ensure you receive fair and just compensation for your injuries and any damages.
Common Causes of Large Truck Accidents
Some of the leading causes of 18-wheeler accidents in Dallas include:
- Driver fatigue
- Overweight loads
- Driver distraction
- Lack of proper training
- Reckless or negligent driving
- Mechanical malfunctions
- Hazardous cargoes and spills
- The use of alcohol or drugs while operating a large truck
- Inclement weather conditions
These are just a handful of the most common causes of large truck accidents in Texas. With the rainy season upon us, we expect to see more accidents like the Lake Charles incident take place, unfortunately.
If you have been involved in a large truck accident on one of Dallas’ many dangerous highways, please give Shamieh Law a call today. Our experienced Dallas truck accident attorneys are here to help you understand your rights following this type of accident. We know just how devastating these accidents can be and will do everything we can to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.