Fatal Houston 18-Wheeler Accident Highlights Dangers

On June 22, 2015, a major highway in Houston was closed for over 13 hours as a result of a fatal trucking accident.  At 1:30 in the afternoon, an 18-wheeler carrying flammable propane careened off the freeway, crashed through barriers, and slammed into a pipeline also carrying flammable and dangerous gas, killing one person.  Emergency and HAZMAT crews responded for several hours.  To read about how the story was covered in the Houston news, click here.  There were no apparent signs of equipment failures, unsafe driving conditions such as rain, or other extenuating circumstances—and even so the consequences were severe.

Although there are millions of semi-trucks on our roads, and although most drivers have become accustomed to sharing the roads with them, it must not be forgotten that they are inherently dangerous and can cause fatal accidents at any time.  It is easy to forget that a fully-loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds.   By comparison, a Ford F-150 weighs only 5,000 pounds.  Given this incredible difference in weight and size, the results when an ordinary passenger vehicle is involved in an accident with an 18-wheeler are severe and are frequently deadly.

The Houston Trucking Accident lawyers at Morrow & Sheppard represent those who are seriously injured in accidents involving 18-wheelers, industrial trucks, and other vehicle incidents.  To read more facts and information about 18-wheeler accidents, click here.

If you or a loved one has been injured, please contact us now for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your claims.