18-Wheeler accidents happen more often than you might think. Commercial trucks are the largest transporter of goods in the United States, and there are approximately three million 18-wheelers registered in the country. Roughly 500,000 accidents involving large trucks occur every year in the U.S. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reported that 4,136 people died in accidents involving large trucks in 2018. The large majority of these fatalities were car drivers and passengers.
18-wheeler accidents are especially common in Texas. Texas regularly leads the country in fatal semi-truck accidents as compared to other states. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), there were 556 fatal truck accidents in Texas in 2017. This is nearly double that of California, the state with the second-highest number of truck accident fatalities.
Accidents involving 18-wheelers are especially dangerous because of their size. 18-wheelers weigh up to 80,000 pounds (40 tons) and are generally 70 to 80 feet long. This is compared to the average car in the U.S. that weighs approximately 4,000 pounds.
What are the Common Types of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Texas?
18-wheelers are prone to certain types of accidents in Texas, including:
- Rollover accidents.
- Jackknife accidents,
- Underride accidents,
- Unsecured cargo accidents, and
- Tire blowout accidents.
What Are Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Texas?
Many different factors can lead to 18-wheeler accidents in Texas. Common causes of 18-wheeler accidents include:
- Driver fatigue. Commercial drivers are under pressure to transport products across the state country quickly. The FMSCSA has regulations that require rest breaks and limit the number of times drivers can stay behind the wheel. Despite these regulations, driver fatigue continues to be a common cause of 18-wheeler accidents.
- Truck drivers must be careful not to speed because the risk of catastrophic injury is significantly increased when the force of an 80,000-pound vehicle is involved. Furthermore, 18-wheelers take twenty to forty percent longer to stop than cars.
- Distracted driving. While on the road, commercial truck drivers must stay alert and aware. If a driver is texting, eating, or otherwise distracted, an accident can result.
- Overloaded cargo. When semi-trucks are overloaded, jackknifing and delays in breaking are more likely to occur. Additionally, the extra weight can also cause mechanical issues resulting in accidents.
- Inadequate training. Under the law, commercial truck drivers must receive special training that teaches them how to handle 18-wheeler trucks and their transmissions, brakes, and other complicated systems. Without proper training, drivers are much more likely to cause accidents.
- Defective mechanical parts. 18-wheelers should be regularly inspected. Brake failures, steering wheel defects, and tire issues can all lead to serious accidents.
- Improper maintenance. The law requires trucking companies to keep their 18-wheelers in safe operating conditions. If a truck is not properly maintained, it increases the risk of mechanical failure or other problems.
- Dangerous weather conditions. Hail, rain, severe wind, and fog can all increase the risk of accidents. Truck drivers need to reduce their speed or stop their vehicles if the weather conditions are dangerous.
What Should You Do If You Were Injured in an 18-Wheeler Accident in Fort Bend?
Getting into an accident with an 18-wheeler is an overwhelming experience. The first step you should always take is to get proper medical attention. The second step you should take is to reach out to an experienced Fort Bend attorney because many trucking and insurance companies try to take advantage of victims who lack knowledge regarding their rights under Texas law.
18-wheeler accidents are much more complex than traditional driving accidents. Commercial truck drivers and trucking companies are governed by federal and state regulations that do not apply to other motor vehicles. Additionally, several different parties may be liable in an 18-wheeler accident, including the truck driver, the trucking company, the cargo company, and the manufacturer.
An attorney will investigate the cause of the accident and identify all potentially liable parties. They can calculate an appropriate settlement value and negotiate with the insurance company. If necessary, your attorney will take your case to court. It is critical to have a professional on your side who will help you receive the compensation that you deserve.
Your Sugar Land Truck Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one were in an 18-wheeler accident, you should reach out to a qualified Sugar Land attorney as soon as possible. Adam Capetillo is a Fort Bend County native who will evaluate your case and provide the best possible representation. Call Capetillo Law Firm today for a free consultation.