Texas Accident & Injury News
Earlier this month, on the tail end of Memorial Day weekend, two people were killed in a truck accident occurring on Interstate 10 near Van Horn. Heavy rain was a contributing factor in the fatal collision.
According to a local news report, a Honda SUV was traveling eastbound on I-10. Due to the heavy rainfall, the driver of the Honda lost control. The vehicle spun out, coming to a stop while blocking several lanes of traffic. Moments later, the driver of an 18-wheeler approached. The truck driver did not stop in time and collided with the SUV. The truck then traveled onto the shoulder, where it flipped over. Another approaching semi-truck then crashed into a rolled-over 18-wheeler.
The passenger in the SUV and the driver of the 18-wheeler both died as a result of injuries they sustained in the accident. The driver of the SUV and the driver of the semi-truck were injured, although they are expected to recover.
This accident highlights the dangers of driving in wet conditions. Not only are road surfaces more slippery during a rainstorm, but visibility is also significantly decreased.
When driving on the highway during inclement weather conditions, it is imperative that drivers slow down to a safe speed—even if that means driving slower than the posted speed limit. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, about 10 percent of all car accidents are caused, at least in part, to poor weather conditions. This amounts to over 134,000 crashes per year. The vast majority of these accidents occur during rainy or foggy conditions.
Typically, motorists should leave at least three seconds of travel time between their vehicle and the car ahead. However, during periods of inclement weather, experts recommend leaving at least six seconds of space between vehicles. Additionally, motorists should begin using their turn signals well in advance of making a turn and refrain from quickly applying the brakes whenever possible.
Carabin Shaw is a local car accident law firm representing individuals and families in cases stemming from all types of Texas motor vehicle collisions. For nearly three decades, the firm’s compassionate and knowledgeable attorneys have provided accident victims and their families with high-quality legal representation throughout what is undoubtedly an extremely challenging time. Carabin Shaw offers all prospective clients a free consultation and can be reached on their website at www.carabinshaw.com