Did you know that one reportable crash happened every 57 seconds in Houston Texas in 2021?
You’re driving along and see a semi-truck barreling down the road toward you. You start to panic, wondering what kind of accident might happen.
Truck accidents can be incredibly dangerous for everyone involved. They often lead to serious injuries or fatalities.
But don’t worry. Keep reading this semi truck guide to learn more about the most common types of semi truck accidents so that you’ll know what to do if one happens near you.
Most Common Types of Semi-Truck Accidents in Houston Texas
When it comes to 18-wheeler accidents, there are a few types that seem to happen more often than others. Here are the most common types of semi-truck accidents in Houston, Texas:
Jackknife Accidents
Jackknife accidents are a serious problem on the nation’s highways. They occur when a truck driver brakes suddenly, causing the trailer to swing out away from the cab.
These accidents often occur on wet roads when a driver is going too fast for the conditions. Jackknife accidents are especially dangerous because the truck becomes difficult to control and may even roll over.
In addition, the sudden stop can cause other vehicles to collide with the truck. As a result, jackknife accidents can cause injuries and even deaths.
The best way to prevent these accidents is for drivers to slow down and be aware of their potential for them. If a jackknife does occur, it is important for drivers to remain calm and avoid making sudden movements.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of truck accidents, and they can happen for a variety of reasons. In some cases, a truck driver may not be paying attention and fail to notice that traffic has slowed down or stopped altogether.
Or, if a truck is carrying an unbalanced load, it could rear-end another vehicle when coming to a stop. Whatever the cause, these accidents can be extremely dangerous since trucks take much longer to stop than passenger vehicles.
Truck drivers need to be extra cautious, always maintaining a safe following distance and being aware of their surroundings. And, if a truck is carrying an unbalanced load, the driver should take care to avoid making any sudden stops.
Rollover Accidents
Rollover accidents are one of the most dangerous types of truck accidents. They often occur when a truck is carrying an unbalanced or overloaded load, and if a truck takes a turn too sharply, the trailer could tip over, causing the cab to roll over as well.
These accidents can be particularly devastating since they often involve multiple vehicles and result in serious injuries or fatalities. In order to prevent these accidents, it is essential that truck drivers take care to avoid sharp turns and to evenly distribute their load.
If a rollover accident does occur, it is important to seek medical attention immediately as serious injuries can result. With prompt treatment, however, many people are able to make a full recovery. Always remember to get witness statements.
Side-Impact Collisions
Side-impact collisions, also known as T-bone accidents, occur when the front end of one vehicle collides with the side of another. These accidents are often caused by trucks making wide turns or changing lanes without properly signaling.
Side-impact collisions can be extremely dangerous because they often result in serious injuries, including broken bones, internal bleeding, and traumatic brain injuries.
In order to avoid these accidents, it is important to always be aware of your surroundings and to signal properly when changing lanes or making a turn. If you are ever involved in a side-impact collision, seek medical attention immediately and take photos of the accident for your lawyer.
Underride Accidents
Underride accidents are one of the most dangerous types of semi truck collision. They occur when a smaller vehicle collides with the side or rear of a truck and becomes wedged underneath.
These accidents are often caused by trucks making wide turns or changing lanes without properly signaling. They can also be caused by trucks backing up without checking their blind spots.
These accidents are particularly dangerous because they often result in serious injuries or fatalities. Victims of underride accidents often suffer from crushing injuries, decapitation, and internal bleeding.
In some cases, victims may be trapped inside their vehicles for hours before being rescued. If you have been involved in an underride accident, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
You may also need to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer to help you recover compensation for your injuries. Underride accidents can be devastating, but with the right help, you can get through this difficult time.
Spillage Accidents
Spillage accidents are a type of truck accident that occurs when the truck’s load shifts and falls off the vehicle. These accidents often occur because the load was not properly secured or because the truck was overloaded.
Spillage accidents can be extremely dangerous because they can cause other vehicles to crash and create hazardous road conditions. In some cases, the spillage may be something innocuous like gravel or lumber.
However, in other cases, the spillage may be hazardous materials that can pose a serious threat to public safety. If you have been involved in a spillage accident, it is important to seek medical attention and legal counsel as soon as possible.
An experienced lawyer can help you navigate the complex process of filing an insurance claim and holding liable parties accountable for their negligence.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are one of the most serious types of truck accidents. They often occur when a truck driver falls asleep at the wheel or is distracted by something in the cab.
As a result, these accidents can be extremely devastating since they often involve multiple vehicles and result in serious injuries or fatalities. Head-on collisions typically occur on highways and interstates, where speeds are high and there is little room for error.
This type of accident can cause extensive damage to both the vehicles involved and the occupants. In some cases, head-on collisions can even lead to fires or explosions.
If you have been involved in a head-on collision, it is important to seek medical attention immediately and contact an experienced truck accident attorney who can help you navigate the legal process.
Vehicle Fires
Vehicle fires are another serious type of truck accident. They can be caused by a variety of things, including faulty equipment, careless smoking, and spills of flammable materials.
These fires can quickly spread, causing serious damage to other vehicles and property. In some cases, they can even lead to injuries or fatalities.
While the best way to prevent these accidents is to make sure that all trucks are properly maintained and that drivers exercise caution, them occasionally do occur.
When they do, it is important to have a plan in place to deal with the situation. This may include having fire extinguishers on hand and knowing how to use them, as well as having an evacuation route planned in advance.
By being prepared, you can help to ensure that any vehicle fire is quickly brought under control and that everyone stays safe.
Explosion Accidents
Explosion accidents are another serious type of truck accident. They can be caused by a variety of things, including faulty equipment, careless smoking, and spills of flammable materials.
These explosions can cause serious injuries or fatalities, as well as damage to other vehicles and property. In some cases, the force of the explosion can even cause the truck to overturn.
If you are involved in an accident with a truck that has exploded, it is important to seek medical attention immediately and then contact an experienced attorney who can help you protect your rights.
Top Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents in Houston Texas
Now that we have gone over the different types of accidents that can occur, let’s take a look at the top cause of semi-truck accidents in Houston, Texas. They include:
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence
- Fatigue
- Reckless driving
- Speeding
- Weather conditions
- Equipment failure
- Poorly maintained trucks
- Road conditions
- Loading and unloading negligence
These are just some of the reasons why semi-truck accidents happen. If you have been involved in one, it is important to speak with an experienced attorney who can help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Stay Safe After a Semi Truck Accident in Houston Texas
If you are worried about being in a semi truck accident in Houston Texas, you should follow the tips in this article. And if you’re ever in an accident, make sure you’re safe before you start exchanging information and taking pictures.
Also, be sure to contact a good lawyer who can help you with the case. That way you can relieve some of your stress.
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