A Houston truck accident attorney discusses the problem
The driver of a big rig that tries to pass beneath a low bridge or travel on a non-permitted route could cause a serious truck accident.
It’s become such a problem in Houston that officials at the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) officials are warning semi-truck drivers about the consequences of traveling through non-permitted routes.
The TxDOT reports that truck drivers are flouting regulations and trying to take their 18-wheelers over roads not designed to handle them or under low bridges, according to a story posted on the CW39 Houston website.
In Texas, all trucking businesses are required to have a permit to drive on certain highways and roads. Trucking companies that ignore obtaining a permit could face fines. Their drivers could cause accidents. They may crash after passing under a low bridge. In other cases, they might travel on a road that is not designed for the weight of the truck.
Causes of truck accidents in Texas
Truck drivers typically fail to obtain a permit because they don’t want to pay for one, according to CW39. The permit keeps them on a safe route. Weighing up to 80,000 pounds, commercial trucks can cause serious and even deadly accidents.
Some of the common causes of truck accidents include:
- Distracted truck drivers
- Speeding
- Drowsy truck drivers
- Overloaded trucks which are prone to tipping or jackknifing
Types of injuries from truck accidents
Injuries in truck accidents can be catastrophic. In an 18-wheeler crash involving a smaller passenger car, the driver and passengers of the smaller vehicle often deal with the following types of injuries:
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Internal injuries including damage to organs
- Deep cuts that result in scarring
- Facial injuries
- Amputations
- Spinal injuries resulting in paralysis
Unfortunately, the insurance claim process can be complex and frustrating for the accident victims. Multiple insurance companies may be involved. The cab and trailer might have separate insurance. Your own insurance company may come into play.
While trying to sort through the red tape, you may be facing significant bills. Hospital stays can add up quickly. A serious injury may require long-term care. A serious truck accident can lead to millions of dollars in costs.
The bills may exceed the policy limits. In some cases, the insurance company may deny the claim or make a low-ball offer that doesn’t come close to the actual financial loss.
How a truck accident lawyer in Texas can help
At Tracey Fox King & Walters, we know how frustrating the process can be for truck accident victims. We understand that you might want to focus on your recovery and not think about the complexities of an insurance claim.
If you or a loved one was injured in a trucking accident, or you lost a loved one in an accident, you don’t have to go it alone. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.
The attorneys at Tracey Fox King & Walters work for accident victims every day to fight for the compensation they deserve. Our offices are in Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio. Contact us today to find out how we can help.