Texas Accident & Injury News
Photo Credit:Christy Soto
WACO, Texas, Feb. 17, 2020:One man is dead after a major accident early in the morning on February the thirteenth involving two 18-wheelers on Interstate 35. Officials identified the victim as 34-year-old Jesus Salas Rodriguez of Grand Prairie.
The Department of Public Safety said the accident took place on the northbound interstate near Loop 340 next to the Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest Medical Center campus.
The accident occurred at around 12:45AM Thursday when an eighteen wheeler going north on IH-35 collided with another parked rig on the side of the highway, then hit a Chevy Tahoe before bursting into flames. The two occupants of the parked rig were taken to the hospital with minor injuries, and the driver of the Tahoe was unharmed. Rodriguez, the driver of the second 18-wheeler, died at the scene.
Google Maps
Large trucks and truck-tractor combinations require more acceleration and deceleration time than an average passenger vehicle and can have blind spots in multiple locations. It is important for drivers to share the road responsibly with large trucks. Drivers should always take extra care and observe the following safety tips.
Pass Safely
Never cut in front of a truck. After you pass, make sure the entire truck appears in your rearview mirror before returning to the lane. Trucks need additional space because they take twice as long to stop as a passenger car.
Stay out of the “No Zone”
“No Zones” are danger areas around large trucks in which crashes are more likely to occur. Because of a truck’s size, there are four large blind spots where cars disappear from the driver’s view.
Avoid Tailgating
A severe collision can result when a car hits the rear end of a truck. Large trucks and the trailers they pull do not have impact-absorbing bumpers. Additionally, the truck’s metal bumpers may not align with those of your car.
Stay Away from Front and Rear Blind Spots
Following a truck too closely obscures your view of the road in front of you. The driver of the truck is also unable to see your vehicle.
If you, a family member or loved one has been injured or has suffered a wrongful death due to driving accidents, 18-wheeler crash, or another personal injury, contact an attorney who specializes in these cases to review your legal options. You may be entitled to compensation for damages, medical treatments, and lost wages due to the incident.
Lawyers at Carabin Shaw help clients get the care and attention they deserve after a serious incident. Our experienced attorneys represent people and families who have suffered catastrophic injuries and tragic wrongful deaths throughout the state of Texas. If you or a loved one has been injured contact us today at (800) 862-1260.