Truck crashes are often more devastating than normal car accidents, but there are certain types of truck accidents that are more common than others.
A large percentage of trucking accidents in Texas result in catastrophic injuries and victims may be entitled to compensation. The severity of the victims’ injuries and the likelihood of wrongful death depends on the type of truck accident.
Truck Involved Traffic Accidents in Texas
According to a 2019 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) report, 652 people died in connection with truck and 18-wheeler accidents in Texas that year.
In addition, Texas also had:
- Most large trucks involved in fatal crashes: 658.
- Most total vehicles involved in fatal crashes: 5,208.
- The largest number of large truck occupants killed in accidents: 146.
- Highest number of non-truck occupants killed in truck-related crashes: 433.
- Most non-occupants (bicyclists, pedestrians) killed in truck-related crashes: 73.
The Texas Department of Transportation noted that there were a total of 6,416 commercial vehicle accidents in Harris County in 2019. This was by far the highest total number of collisions of any county in Texas that year, with Harris County Dallas in second place with 4,145 accidents.
What Are the Most Common Truck Crashes?
These are the most common truck crashes in Texas.
Jackknife Accident
These accidents occur when a truck folds in on itself so that the cab forms a 90-degree angle with the trailer. These incidents are usually caused by the truck driver braking too hard and too fast, causing the weight of the trailer to push it forward against the pull of the cab portion of the truck.
Tire Blowout Accident
Commercial truck tires are under incredible stress and a blowout can cause the driver to lose control of the truck. This can pose a significant hazard to nearby vehicles. Also, the blown tire itself can lead to serious accidents on the road.
Wide Turn Accident
Large commercial truck drivers often turn the vehicle to the left before turning right in order to complete the turn properly. When a driver turns the truck to the left, this can pose a risk to those in the driver’s blind spots or those approaching the truck from the rear. Drivers can also catch vehicles or pedestrians on their right side while turning.
Speeding Accident
If a driver loses control of their commercial truck, the vehicle could roll onto its side and collide with unsuspecting drivers or pedestrians.
Blind Spot Accident
Commercial trucks have blind spots on all four sides of their vehicles. When a driver cannot see other vehicles while changing lanes, they put those around them in danger of being hit, forced off the road, or crushed.
Rear-end Accident
Due to the weight of commercial trucks, these vehicles are often unable to slow down quickly enough to avoid vehicles in front. These accidents can cause catastrophic injuries and significant property damage.
Cargo Accident
It is critical that commercial truck drivers and transportation companies properly secure and load products in their vehicles. If they don’t, the weight of the vehicle could shift and cause an accident on the road. Also, unsecured cargo could fall and hit other people on the road.
T-bone Accident
T-shaped collisions can occur any time a truck driver runs a red light and hits the side of another vehicle. The weight of a commercial truck can cause catastrophic damage if it destroys another vehicle.
If you are injured, learn what to do after a truck accident and consult with an experienced Trujillo Sanchez attorney. At the Law Offices of Trujillo Sanchez, truck accident attorneys will help you with your claim. Call for a free consultation right away.
If you found this post interesting, you can read:
- What to do after a truck accident in Texas?
- Why are trucking accidents in Texas more complex than any other lawsuit?
- What kind of damages can you claim for your injuries after a car accident?
- How long does a Texas car accident lawsuit take?
