When driving alongside a commercial truck or another large vehicle, it’s easy to feel unnerved. Even though commercial drivers are trained and certified for the safe operation of these massive trucks and buses. These machines’ sheer size makes them potentially very dangerous. The fear many of us feel when they’re in nearby lanes may feel a bit unfounded. But sadly, commercial vehicle accidents are all too common. Knowing how often these catastrophic crashes occur helps drivers mitigate risk while they’re on the road.
Commercial Vehicle Accidents Occur All the Time
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) collects information about large vehicle accidents every year. They look at the types of large vehicles involved in these accidents and the people and drivers affected. In fact, the federal government has been collecting this information since 1975, and the trends do not look promising.
According to FMCSA, 4,889 large trucks and busses were involved in fatal crashes in 2017. This represents a 9% increase from 2016 and a whopping 42% rise from the all-time low for this statistic that occurred in 2009. In 2018 there was an increase in fatalities from truck accidents of 3% compared to 2017. This increase is not a statistical anomaly. Even when increased traffic is accounted for; the number of fatalities from semi-truck accidents is rising.
Increased Danger from Commercial Traffic Triggers Local Regulation
There are nearly two million semi-trucks in operation that are distributing products throughout the US. The operation of these vehicles is essential to our economy. However, we have seen an increase in the number of semi-truck accidents. In fact, commercial trucks are responsible for billions of dollars in property damages. They also cause untold pain and suffering due to personal injury and fatalities. Public safety officials in Texas are not ignoring the threat that semi-truck poses to residents. This is especially true in Houston, which has cracked down on truck drivers’ activities across the community.
Houston’s new commercial truck safety policies are extending into nearby towns. Katy, for example, has received new authority from the State of Texas to enforce commercial motor vehicle safety laws within its borders. In the last decade, Katy has suffered damages from over 300 commercial truck crashes. Many of these accidents included dangerous cargo material.
Police and public safety officials work hard to protect us from the hazards posed by commercial trucks. Yet, the authorities can not prevent every accident. If you were injured by a semi-truck accident in the Houston area; you should contact an attorney right away. The skilled lawyers at Williams Hart & Boundas law firm are always available to discuss your case. We’ll answer all your questions during a free consultation. We will also make sure that you get the benefits of full protection under the law.
