Truck drivers have deadlines, they are tired, and they often lose focus on long routes. All of that leads to speeding, which significantly increases the risk of a serious crash. Semi-trucks take longer to stop, and that means when a truck is moving at a very high rate of speed, it will be nearly impossible for the vehicle to stop soon enough to avoid changing road conditions.
There are several factors to consider about speeding resulting in a Houston truck crash. If you are the victim of such an accident, seek help from our helpful Houston truck accident lawyer before talking to the insurance company.
Complications from Speeding Trucks
A truck operated at a high rate of speed is more challenging for the driver to manage. Even skilled drivers will find several risks come from high rates of speed when they are behind the wheel of an 18-wheeler.
- Loss of control is common. Faster movement means the vehicle is harder to maneuver. Even small changes in direction or curves can mean the driver does not compensate soon enough, causing a serious accident.
- Head-on collision results. Some speeding trucks result in the driver crossing the center line on the roadway, plowing into other drivers traveling in the opposite direction. Crossing into oncoming traffic is a very common reason for fatalities in truck accidents.
- Truck jackknifing accidents. When truck drivers operate at a high rate of speed, the back end of the truck may begin moving faster than the tractor, creating a jackknife incident. That means the trailer of the truck swings out to the side, creating a “V” shape. This is a very difficult situation to control.
- Rollover accidents. Trucks traveling at high speed are more likely to rollover when the driver tries to turn too quickly or brakes suddenly. The momentum of the truck will cause the driver to lose control, leading to unbalancing on the wheels and ultimately flipping to the side.
When a driver operates a truck at a high rate of speed, the risk of serious crashes increases. When you couple this with fatigue, distraction, or vehicle malfunctions, the risk of fatalities grows.
Speeding Results in Serious Injuries and Losses
Victims struck by a truck operating at a very high rate of speed often have serious injuries. The rate of speed and force, coupled with the weight of the truck, can cause devastating injuries, including:
- Crushing incidents
- Internal organ failure
- Spinal cord damage resulting in paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Amputations
- Burns from explosions and fires
There is a very high risk of loss of life in these accidents. Those who survive may face catastrophic injuries, including loss of mobility.
Determining Liability in Truck Accidents
With the guidance of your truck accident lawyer in Houston, it will be possible to gather data to prove the truck driver was speeding in most situations. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration makes it clear that truck drivers must abide by all laws, including the speed limit. Failure to do so can result in fines. It can also result in the driver being held accountable for the losses they cause. Commercial truck black box data could help prove this was the case.
Set Up a Free Consultation to Discuss Your Case
The Doan Law Firm provides comprehensive legal guidance to victims of speeding trucks in Houston. If you have injuries, set up a free consultation now.