Truck Wreck

Everyday millions of Americans share the roads with 18-wheelers and other large trucks. These vehicles are absolutely crucial for the transportation industry, but that doesn’t mean they come without risks. Although trucks only account for a fraction of vehicles on the roads, they contribute to approximately 10% of the total number of traffic fatalities according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The high fatality rate from truck wrecks illustrates the importance of safe driving on behalf of truck drivers.

In the state of Texas, trucks are legally allowed to weigh up to 81,400 pounds. Because of their tremendous weight and size, they generate a huge amount of force during a collision. With the ability to cause such destruction comes serious responsibilities and regulations. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict rules for what drivers can and cannot do.

FMCSA regulations require truck drivers to keep logbooks of all of their trips. This helps track the number of hours a driver has worked, which is important because drivers have working hour limitations. These working hour limits are designed to prevent fatigued driving, which is a common cause of truck accidents. Mostly importantly, FMCSA regulations prohibit truck drivers from driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Sadly, not all truck drivers follow FMCSA regulations and not all trucking companies actively ensure these regulations are enforced with regard to their drivers, which results in devastating collisions.

Injuries From Truck Wrecks

One of the most tragic aspects of truck wrecks is the vast majority of the time they injure or kill passengers in other vehicles. Trucks are designed to keep truck drivers well protected, sitting them up much higher than the operators of other vehicles. Passenger vehicles, on the other hand, rarely provide the protection needed to protect occupants from trucks during a collision. Individuals in passenger vehicles suffer catastrophic injuries in truck wrecks. Victims require months or even years to recover, and some will still suffer permanent injuries.

Texas Truck Wreck Lawyer

Trucking companies and their drivers have no right to put others’ lives at risk on the roads. If a commercial truck injured you or someone you love, contact a Texas truck wreck lawyer at The McMillan Law Firm today to learn your options.