Moving to Dallas?
Great choice!
It’s a vibrant city. But with booming growth comes a significant rise in accidents. Sharing the road with large vehicles like trucks can pose serious risks. You must know what these risks are and your legal rights to drive safely and make wise decisions on the roads of Dallas.
Truck Size and Blind Spots
One of the main dangers posed by large commercial vehicles is their size. Trucks have significant blind spots on the sides, in front, and behind the vehicle, making it difficult for drivers to spot smaller cars nearby.
Truck accident lawyers in Dallas emphasize that all drivers are legally expected to be aware of these blind spots and to avoid staying in them too long. According to Texas law, a driver who lingers in a truck’s blind spot and gets into an accident could be held partially responsible.
Stopping Distance and Weight
A fully loaded truck requires far more distance than a regular passenger vehicle to come to a complete stop. The weight of a car, combined with its momentum, makes braking more challenging, especially when roads are wet or slippery. Texas law requires truck drivers to maintain proper following distances to reduce the risk of rear-end collisions. If a truck driver tailgates or doesn’t maintain an adequate distance, they may be held liable for accidents caused by sudden stops or other traffic disruptions.
See also: Criminal Defense Lawyers: Testimonials and Reviews
Truck Driver Fatigue and Inattention
Driver weariness can result from long hours behind the wheel, significantly increasing the likelihood of accidents. While regulations exist to limit the number of consecutive driving hours, enforcement can be difficult.
Truckers in Dallas and across Texas are legally required to take regular breaks, but fatigue can still impair their reaction times.
If a truck driver’s negligence leads to an accident, injured parties may pursue compensation under Texas law, including claims for driver fatigue.
Cargo Shifting and Load Limits
Improperly secured cargo is another risk posed by trucks. Under Texas law, trucking companies must secure loads to prevent cargo from shifting during transit. If a load shifts or spills, it can cause serious accidents.
Drivers, truck companies, and even freight shippers may be liable if the cargo is not secured correctly. Under state and federal trucking restrictions, accident victims may file property damage or personal injury claims in certain situations.
Legal Recourse After an Accident
It’s critical to be aware of your legal rights in the event that you are in a truck accident. Texas law permits truck accident victims to pursue damages for lost wages, medical costs, and injuries. Depending on the situation, victims may file claims under strict liability or negligence if the truck driver or trucking firm is deemed to have been careless. To fully understand your options, you must speak with a lawyer knowledgeable about Texas trucking regulations.
Conclusion
Living or driving in Dallas means learning to navigate a bustling city with many trucks. These vehicles are crucial to the city’s infrastructure but pose unique risks. Being aware of their blind spots, stopping distances, and the dangers of getting too close can help you stay safe.
If you ever find yourself in a difficult situation with a truck accident, it is essential to understand your legal rights and options.
