In Texas, Interstate 30 (I-30) is a vital artery for transportation, especially for commerce, with many 18-wheelers passing through every day. But unfortunately, this road has also seen a number of car accidents. Here, you can find how common truck accidents are on this specific road, and what can you do if you find yourself involved in one.
Recent 18-wheeler Accidents on I-30
In recent times, this east-west interstate highway has been host to a series of 18-wheeler accidents, each carrying its share of devastation and tragedy. Below is a description of two recent accidents:
- On August 7, 2023, at 8:27 a.m. in Royse City, an 18-wheeler crashed into three cars on I-30 Eastbound. One of the cars caught fire and became engulfed in flames. Tragically, two lives were lost as a result and three other people were injured.
- Another incident unfolded near Lake Ray Hubbard, where an 18-wheeler explosion disrupted the tranquility of the morning. At around 4:50 a.m., an 18-wheeler traveling westbound on I-30 exploded after crashing into a parked 18-wheeler on the shoulder near Zion Road. Two occupants were inside the truck that caught fire, and both were rushed to area hospitals. Unfortunately, only one person survived.
Why Does Texas Have a High Number of 18-Wheeler Accidents?
According to recent data by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), there were a total of 6,710 accidents involving large trucks like 18-wheelers and buses in the first four months of 2023. In 2022, there was a total of 22,322 large truck accidents. This makes it the state with the most collisions in the country by a wide margin. These are the main reasons why this might be the case for Texas:
Oil and Gas Industry: Texas has a thriving oil and gas business, especially in West Texas, where there are many wells and refineries in operation. Houston is also the home of significant energy behemoths including Shell, BP, and CITGO. Transporting everything from large pieces of equipment to finished oil and gas strongly relies on 18-wheelers. Driver errors on tanker trucks or other large rigs can have disastrous results, leading to injuries and deaths.
Gulf Port Cities: Texas is at the center of the world’s shipping commerce thanks to its advantageous location along the Gulf of Mexico. The region’s Gulf Coast is home to a number of ports that are important stops for cargo passing through the Panama Canal. 18-wheeler drivers are largely in charge of moving containers to and from these ports. The prevalence of 18-wheeler traffic in port towns like Houston raises the danger of truck accidents.
Key Transportation Corridors: Major highways cut through Texas, acting as vital transportation arteries for 18-wheelers transporting cargo throughout the country. The interstates I-10, I-20, I-30, and I-40 are among the most common transcontinental highways in America. Highways account for a sizable portion of all 18-wheeler accidents, making them particularly risky.
Steps to Take After an 18-Wheeler Accident
Accidents involving 18-wheelers frequently result in injuries and deaths, and the fallout may be devastating. It is critical to follow the appropriate security measures to avoid an accident like this and procedures after such an incident:
Prioritize Medical Treatment: The highest focus should always be your health. Whether you think you are seriously injured or not, it is always best to immediately seek medical attention following an accident. A doctor can ensure you don’t have any injuries that you don’t yet feel and the medical records will be important for any potential future litigation.
Collect Information: Gather as much information about the accident as possible. Take photographs, note the truck driver’s information, secure witness testimonies and contact information, and document any other relevant details.
Consult an Attorney: Consult an expert attorney if you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident. It might be difficult to obtain just compensation for harms and losses. Although a settlement may be reached, it might be necessary to file a lawsuit and even go to trial in order to obtain a positive result. In these cases, competent legal representation is crucial. Morris & Dewett can be the guidance you need in these complex cases to get the fair compensation you deserve.
Get Help From a Trusted Attorney
The frequent occurrence of 18-wheeler accidents on I-30 in Texas raises concerns about road safety and the devastating impact of such incidents on individuals and communities. As the state continues to be at the forefront of 18-wheeler accidents in the United States, it is essential for all people, including truck drivers, trucking companies, and policymakers, to prioritize safety on the road.
If you live in Texas and regularly drive through Interstate 30, then it’s worth having a trusted truck accident lawyer on your side. In case you or someone you know has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident, then this is a must. A law firm like Morris & Dewett can help secure the fair compensation you deserve from your insurance company. Schedule a consultation with us now to talk about your case.
SOURCES:
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Summary Report.
