Although hearing about 18-wheeler truck accidents in the news may seem commonplace, witnessing one first hand is anything but—especially when a semi-truck is driving under an overpass that’s too small. This may sound humorous to some, but it can become a real problem for anyone else on the road with the truck.
Recently, there have been trucks that crashed into bridges while trying to drive under overpasses in the Austin area. Many of us may be wondering how this could happen as truck drivers should know the height of their trucks and the clearance restrictions involved.
Just last month in the middle of rush-hour traffic, a trucker drove under the Interstate 35 overpass only to discover too late that the truck wouldn’t fit. Cesar Chavez Street was closed for several hours, causing long delays for motorists. A witness chuckled about the incident, but the truth is that the risk represented by a truck stuck in the middle of the road was no laughing matter.
Fortunately, nobody was injured in this incident, although serious injuries could have been sustained if parts of the truck that were damaged were to have hit nearby vehicles. The trucking company, 7G, has accumulated about 126 safety and maintenance violations in the last two years. The driver was given a citation for not having an over-height permit.
Violating state and federal safety regulations is not uncommon for trucking companies and the drivers of big rigs. Overloading trucks is a big problem, as profits over safety seem to be a priority for the billion-dollar trucking industry.
Overloaded trucks are one of the leading causes of truck-related accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 111,000 people were injured and 3,903 were killed in accidents involving large trucks in 2014. Texas had the highest number of large trucks causing fatal injuries in the United States, accounting for 532 deaths.
If cargo is either too heavy or unbalanced, the likelihood that a driver may lose control of an 18-wheeler increases, threatening other motorists with catastrophic injuries. The results can be devastating and cause life-changing injuries. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal cord injuries, emotional trauma, broken bones, and death are a few of the common results related to overloaded truck wrecks.
Victims who suffer injuries not only experience physical and emotional consequences, they also suffer financially. Medical expenses and loss of work can cause financial turmoil, especially if the injuries are long term or permanent.
When a large truck is overloaded, the vehicle becomes overweight, thereby limiting performance, becoming more difficult to maneuver, decreasing braking capability, and potentially causing tire blowouts. In addition, overloaded cargo may cause improper balance, increasing the risk of a rollover or lost load. Any truck that is overloaded is likely to have cargo that is not properly secured, leading to items falling off the truck and causing an accident.
Suffering an injury due to an overloaded or overweight truck can be traumatizing to victims and their families. Seeking the advice of a skilled and experienced personal injury lawyer is critical.
The law firm of Colley & Colley, LLP is experienced with all types of truck and car crashes. We have a proven track record of successfully representing our clients in both out-of-court negotiations and in the courtroom during trial.
We can help you recover the compensation you deserve. Call for a free consultation at 512-477-2001 or contact us online by completing the form at the bottom of this page.
15511 W Highway 71
Suite 110-142
Austin, TX 78738
(512) 477-2001
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