We see tankers on our highways every day without considering the consequences when they are involved in a traffic accident. In most cases, these large trucks transport hazardous cargo like gasoline, which poses a heightened risk in the event of a tractor-trailer accident. However, not all tank trucks carry hazardous materials. Some transport milk or water. Regardless, the sheer weight of a liquid cargo truck can result in serious injuries in an accident.
Accidents involving tank trucks are often catastrophic due to their size and weight, especially when fully loaded. Even the smallest tanker truck can hold at least 3000 gallons of gasoline or any other liquid, while the largest can carry up to 12,000 gallons. Even when the tank is empty, there remains a significant risk to its occupants and other road users. If you have been injured in a wreck, contact us today to discover how a Missouri City tanker truck accident lawyer can assist you.
If you have been involved in a liquid cargo truck wreck and firmly believe that someone else is responsible for the crash, you may be eligible for compensation for your damages. To pursue this, you need to gather evidence and file a claim against the at-fault party. While you can file the claim on your own, having a local attorney can effectively protect your legal rights during a tanker truck accident case.
There are numerous reasons why tanker accidents can occur in Missouri City. In many cases, these wrecks result from the negligence and irresponsibility of the truck driver. They have a legal obligation not only to ensure their own safety on the road but also to protect the safety of other road users.
Having a lawyer can help determine the driver’s liability in the crash. The truck operator may be negligent due to:
Unlike other auto wrecks, collisions involving tankers often lead to the large trucks rolling over or becoming overturned. Factors that primarily contribute to rollovers include:
Unlike other vehicles, tankers have a unique design for carrying goods. They have a high center of balance that can vary as the liquid cargo (e.g., diesel, ethanol, milk, water) moves inside the tanker while the truck is in motion. This can result in a rollover or tipping over when speeding around sharp bends in the road.
Most tank trucks are specifically designed to carry a certain amount of liquid cargo. As mentioned earlier, the largest tanks can hold up to 12,000 gallons of liquid. If there is a vacuum or inadequate filling in the tank, the cargo may move freely, causing shifts in the tanker’s weight distribution and altering its center of gravity. This makes it challenging to control the vehicle.
Due to their weight, size, and cargo load, tanker trucks require more time to come to a complete stop compared to other vehicles. If the driver stops abruptly, the velocity of the liquid content can result in dangerous energy and weight imbalances, potentially leading to a rollover.
Operating liquid cargo trucks requires specialized driver training. Drivers are expected to adhere to high safety standards while operating the vehicles and demonstrate competence in handling the goods they transport.
Additionally, liquid cargo truck drivers need to be well-versed in the mechanics of the vehicles to prevent any potential hazards resulting from mistakes. This is crucial considering the weight and nature of the carried goods. For example, a diesel truck mechanic must ensure there are no electrical system short circuits during repairs to prevent explosions.
Determining liability in a tanker truck accident case can be complex as there are several potentially responsible parties involved. Entities that may bear fault include:
Your lawyer will advise you on the proper responsible parties to ensure proper compensation for your tanker truck accident injuries.
In accidents involving tanker trucks, the injuries are often severe. You may suffer from injuries including:
If you have been involved in an auto wreck, our Missouri City tanker truck accident lawyer can assist you in recovering damages for your injuries. To discuss your case in greater detail, please schedule a free consultation with our Lone Star Injury Attorneys.
