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Texas is the largest domestic producer of crude oil in the United States with an average production of 1.7 billion barrels a year according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA). Of course, this comes with accelerated infrastructural growth to enhance the production and distribution of this golden commodity. It’s, therefore, not a surprise that Texas highways such as Interstate 610, are usually busy with tanker trucks.
Unfortunately, there are always two sides to the coin. Although these trucks play a vital role in spurring economic growth in the region, they contribute equally to many auto wrecks on these roads. Bellaire, or the City of Homes as it is commonly referred to, is among the areas where some of these accidents occur. If you were in a similar crash, you need to discuss your legal options with a Bellaire tanker truck accident lawyer as soon as you can.
Unlike other vehicles, trucks are big and usually weigh at least 30 tons when loaded depending on the cargo. So besides their large size, they come with an additional risk of causing serious harm or fatalities based on the hazardous materials in transit. It could be Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) or gasoline, all of which may explode during impact. For these reasons, tanker trucks require proper handling.
Some of the most common reasons why tanker truck wrecks happen include:
Based on the cases our attorneys have handled, drivers are often to blame for most auto wrecks. Negligence on their part may encompass a variety of circumstances, such as speeding, unsafe lane changes, aggressive driving, drowsy driving, and distracted driving. All these behaviors have a common denominator. They take the driver’s attention away from the road. Reacting to impending dangers effectively thus becomes near-impossible. Such drivers may be personally held accountable by their insurance companies or employers with the help of experienced tanker truck accident attorneys in Bellaire.
As long-distance vehicles, tanker trucks require regular maintenance checks, perhaps more than most personal vehicles. State and federal regulations require all trucks to undergo full inspection at least once per year. Besides the normal servicing of wipers, brake systems, lights, oil filters, and refilling vital fluids, the engine must be thoroughly inspected for any defects or probable malfunctioning. If established to be faulty or worn out, the engine must be replaced. Unfortunately, some trucking companies and truck owners do not fulfill this requirement, thus allowing unroadworthy tanker trucks to travel on our roads. Brake failure, steering malfunctions, and tire blowouts are common examples of how improper maintenance contributes to auto wrecks.
Bad weather and poor roads make driving challenging and unsafe for everyone, including experienced drivers. For tanker truck operators, bad weather conditions such as fog, mist, ice, and snow can have a greater impact. These conditions determine how firmly the tires grip to tarmac as well as how balanced and secure the cargo load remains. For example, if the road is slippery, the cargo may shift in balance, causing the truck to jackknife. All drivers should undergo defensive driving techniques to prepare them for driving in bad weather.
Tanker trucks are designed to carry hazardous goods safely and securely. So when the parties responsible for this task fail to do their work properly, accidents are likely to happen. Improper cargo loading may cause the load to shove, thereby causing an imbalanced shift in weight. The aftermath can be catastrophic, especially when in public areas or a gridlock. The truck may overturn, spilling the cargo and resulting in injuries, deaths, and environmental pollution. A skilled Bellaire tanker truck accident attorney may help you identify all the parties to hold responsible.
As mentioned earlier, any crash involving negligence often results in a civil case as the injured person seeks compensation from the at-fault party. Determining whether you qualify to file a claim is reserved for an experienced attorney with experience in personal injury law. Our Bellaire tanker truck accident attorneys will review your case and establish:
Our teams believe in personalized approaches to every case we handle for the best results. So if you were hurt or lost a loved one, call Lone Star Injury Attorneys to discuss your rights.
Tanker truck accidents can be devastating, leaving victims to deal with severe injuries, financial burdens, and emotional distress. If you or a loved one has been affected by such an accident, you don’t have to face this overwhelming situation alone. At Lone Star Injury Attorneys, we understand the complexities of these cases and are here to provide compassionate, personalized legal guidance.
Our experienced team is ready to fight for your rights and pursue the compensation you need to move forward. Call us today for a free consultation with a Bellaire tanker truck accident lawyer.
Lone Star Injury Attorneys, PLLC
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