Common Causes of Semi Truck Accidents in Houston

Semi tractor trailers, big rigs, 18-wheelers and other large trucks can cause devastating and disastrous crashes. Houston Truck Accident Lawyers know how to handle these claims and to get you the compensation you deserve from the trucking company or insurer. As the largest city in Texas, Houston has a population of 2.3 million people, and 71% of Houston residents drive a non-commercial vehicle. If a passenger car or SUV is involved in an accident with a commercial vehicle such as a bus, semi truck, 18-wheeler, tractor trailer, or big rig, the outcome can be devastating. For example, a Houston commercial trucking company employs truckers who drive heavily laden commercial vehicles like a semi truck, 18-wheeler, or tractor trailer, which can weigh in at around 70,000 pounds.

When a big rig is moving down a Houston road or highway, such as the I-10, I-45, I-610, SH 99, Hwy 59, Beltway 8, Hardy Toll Road, or I-69 at high speeds, it is nearly unstoppable and can easily turn a motorist's everyday commute into a lethal situation. Although a passenger car is lightweight, in comparison, and can easily maneuver in and out of lanes on Houston highways, it is no match for a large commercial truck. If the two vehicles are unable to avoid a collision, the driver of the passenger car will be lucky to escape with their life.

Fact: The length of time to stop an eighteen wheeler is on average 40% greater than the time required to stop an automobile, depending on the weight of their load, whether they are bob-tailing, road conditions, and a number of other factors. Moreover, 18-wheeler trucks only have 10 brakes, not 18, as many people think. On a more positive note, trucks manufactured today are required to have anti-lock brakes.

Houston Transportation Facts

Houston TranStar states on its website that it is a national leader in freeway incident management that uses state-of-the-art technologies to reduce congestion on major Houston roadways. Monitoring traffic incidents with more than 730 regional Closed Circuit Television Cameras (CCTVs), staff at the TranStar center dispatch vehicles to remove debris or hazardous materials, communicate with emergency vehicles about the most direct routes to an accident scene, and send tow trucks to assist stalled vehicles. Dynamic Message Signs (DMS) deployed from Houston TranStar inform travelers about projected travel times and traffic jams ahead. Synchronized traffic signals, speed sensors, Highway Advisory Radio, ramp meters, and other devices also help keep traffic moving smoothly through the Greater Houston area.

Common Causes of Houston Semi Truck Accidents

By law, Houston truck drivers must possess a Commercial Drivers' License (CDL) and limit the number of hours they drive during a given day. This law is intended to prevent Texas truck drivers from becoming fatigued during long drives without adequate breaks or rest. Houston truckers must also avoid aggressive driving behavior, follow posted speed limits, properly maintain and inspect their truck, and yield to other vehicles on the road. If the truck driver decides to take shortcuts and avoid safety precautions, then it is likely that a major truck accident will transpire, in which the truck driver will be found negligent. If you find yourself a victim of a Houston truck accident, you should contact a qualified Houston truck accident lawyer or attorney immediately.

Many Houston or Harris County trucking injuries, accidents, crashes, and wrecks involving a semi truck, big rig, 18-wheeler, tractor trailer, or bus occur in Houston and surrounding cities. Common causes include: If you or a family member are involved in a Houston truck accident, contact one of the Houston Truck Accident law firms listed on this page.

Truck Accidents Occur in Houston and Surrounding Cities

Serving clients throughout Southeast Texas, including Aldine, Baytown, Bellaire, Beaumont, Channelview, Cloverleaf, Conroe, Deer Park, Friendswood, Galena Park, Galveston, Hedwig Village, Highlands, Hilshire Village, Humble, Jacinto City, Katy, League City, Magnolia, Mission Bend, Missouri City, Pasadena, Pearland, Porter, Sealy, South Houston, Spring Valley, Stafford, The Meadows, The Woodlands, Waller and West University.

A Houston Truck Collision Lawyer can help you prove that the truck accident you were involved in was in fact due to the trucker’s negligence and that you are entitled to monetary damages. Contact a Houston Truck Accident Attorney today for a full explanation of your legal rights.