Del Rio 18 Wheeler Squeeze Play Accidents

It’s not uncommon to see all types of vehicles on the roadways of Del Rio. Not only are there passenger vehicles traveling the city streets, but there are also numerous large commercial vehicles. Wherever you see passenger vehicles and 18-wheelers sharing the same streets, you’ll find an increased risk of accidents between the two. When a private vehicle is involved in an accident with an 18-wheeler, significant damage and potentially serious injuries may occur.

State laws are in place to ensure the safe operation of vehicles in cities all over Texas, including Del Rio. Drivers of 18-wheelers are under the same obligations to operate their vehicles safely, just like drivers of passenger automobiles. The problem is that attempting maneuvers in an 18-wheeler that would otherwise be fairly simple in a car become more complex and difficult due to the sheer size and weight of a tractor trailer.

There are many types of accidents involving large semi-trucks and passenger cars, but one in particular involves turning. Del Rio 18-wheeler turning accidents happen when the 18-wheeler attempts a turn, usually to the right, and the other vehicle gets caught between the truck and another object, usually a curb.

Turning is especially difficult with a weight in the tens of thousands of pounds and a 60-foot-long trailer. When making a right turn, drivers of 18-wheelers will often make a slight swing to the left in an effort to have enough room to complete the turn. If the operator of the truck fails to signal properly or neglects to make clear his intentions, the 18-wheeler can seem to be turning left. This leaves the driver of the automobile to make an effort to move forward in the right lane causing the car to get pinned between the semi and the side of the road. Known as a “squeeze play accident,” this often results in serious injuries to the driver and passengers that may be in the car.

In Del Rio 18-wheeler squeeze play accidents, the primary danger to automobile occupants is the force at which impact occurs. As the full weight and velocity of the 18-wheeler come to bear upon a passenger auto, there can be a crushing effect on the car. Given the height of an 18-wheeler’s trailer over a typical automobile, the roof can come down upon anyone in the car. This creates significant risk for head and spine trauma, along with a host of other severe injuries.

There are some measures a driver of a passenger auto can take to minimize the risk of a Del Rio 18-wheeler squeeze play accident. It’s important to remain alert and to keep a safe distance behind an 18-wheeler. Even if it appears the truck may be turning left, allow it to complete its turn before proceeding and never pass on the right. But even if you, as the driver, do everything to avoid a collision, accidents still occur. When that happens, you don’t have to deal with it alone.

If you’ve been involved in a Del Rio 18-wheeler squeeze play accident and suffered severe injuries, it’s in your best interest to contact an attorney immediately. A qualified and skilled lawyer can evaluate your case and help you through the process of seeking compensation for your injuries. You will want the help of a Del Rio 18-wheeler accident attorney on your side.

You will, no doubt, be contacted by representatives or lawyers for the trucking company. You may even be contacted by their insurance company, whose representatives may attempt to offer you a quick settlement in an effort to minimize their costs. An attorney of your own can serve as your representative in a situation like this. They can be the ones to discuss your case with the insurance company and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

The lawyers of Carabin Shaw in Del Rio are ready to meet with you and discuss your case. Your first consultation with us is free of charge, and we won’t charge you a thing until we win your case. Our attorneys will discuss what’s happening with you every step of the way to make sure you know what to expect.

To schedule an appointment with one of our attorneys in Del Rio, call us today toll-free at 800-862-1260.