The devastating crash on I-20 in Kaufman County near the town of Terrell that claimed six lives this summer has brought renewed attention to the dangers of drowsy driving and the immense impact 18 wheeler collisions can have on innocent families.
According to a news report from CBS News, a tractor-trailer driver allegedly fell asleep at the wheel, causing a chain-reaction crash that claimed the lives of six people.
The crash occurred while traffic was stopped due to a previous incident on the interstate. The semi-truck plowed into the back of a passenger vehicle, triggering a deadly sequence of collisions. The driver of the semi truck is now facing multiple counts of manslaughter.
Our hearts go out to the families of the deceased and those injured in the collision as well as their friends and communities. It is a heartbreaking reminder that fatigued or negligent driving can destroy lives in seconds.
Tragedies like these are hard to avoid while on the road, but here are some tips to help:
Practicing defensive driving techniques can make the difference between a close call and a life-changing accident. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) offers these proven strategies for sharing the road safely with 18-wheelers:
- Always buckle up: The studies prove seatbelts are very effective in limiting injuries in almost all cases.
- Eliminate distractions: Trucks can’t swerve or stop quickly to avoid inattentive drivers.
- Beware of blindspots: Always double and triple check your blindspots and remember 18 wheels have bigger and more blindspots. Don’t assume the truck driver is doing the same. For your own safety, it is a best practice to assume the truck driver is not.
- Keep your distance: Stay far behind trucks to allow space for emergency stops or sudden lane changes.
- Avoid cutting in front: A truck’s stopping time is significantly longer than a car’s. Don’t swerve or pass unless you have plenty of room.
- Be patient: If a truck is turning or backing up, give it space. Rushing past can result in a side-impact crash.
- Use turn signals early: Help truckers anticipate your movements.
- Slow down in bad weather: Some weather conditions may warrant slowing even below the posted limit. Reduced speed gives you more time to react and helps prevent loss of control.
- Double your following distance in bad weather: This allows for extra stopping space for both you and nearby trucks.
- Avoid passing: Especially in bad weather, particularly on slick roads, bridges, or blind curves.
- Avoid driving directly in front of or beside 18-wheelers due to the blind spots and control issues with commercial vehicles.
If you are involved in a crash involving a semi-truck or other commercial vehicle, it’s critical to act quickly and protect your rights:
1. Seek Immediate Police and Medical Attention.
These collisions usually create additional dangerous traffic conditions and involve many complex issues regarding fault, so it is important to immediately seek police assistance. Also, even if you feel fine, injuries from these collisions often show up days or weeks later, so seeking early medical attention is important.
2. Document Everything.
Photos and videos of the accident scene and injuries, medical records, witness statements, and police reports can be vital in protecting your rights.
3. Remember: Insurance Adjusters Don’t Work for You.
Trucking industry players are often backed by large insurers with teams of lawyers and investigators. Insurance adjusters have one goal: limit what they pay—not to help you heal or be made whole, so be careful and prepared with facts and supporting evidence if you talk to them on your own.
Justice Begins with Accountability
While nothing can undo the heartbreak of tragedy, holding negligent drivers and companies accountable is the first step in preventing future loss. Fatigued driving is 100% preventable and it’s time for stronger enforcement and corporate responsibility.
If you or someone you know has been impacted by a commercial truck crash, don’t wait. Contact us today for a free consultation. We’re here to listen, investigate, and fight for your family’s future.
