Fatal Accident Spike Prompts TxDOT Warning

According to a KSAT News report, the TxDOT has issued a warning to drivers after fatal accidents increased around 5 main energy sectors.

The TxDOT reported that 25% of fatal accidents in Texas happen in the five main energy sectors, which are the Permian Basin, Eagle Ford Shale, Barnett Shale, Anadarko Basin, and the Haynesville/Bossier Shale. Fatal accidents across the state have increased 31.9% from 2021 to 2022. The main cited reason for this was driver inattention (distracted driving) combined with increasing 18-wheeler traffic.

Did You Know?

Eagle Ford Shale is closest to San Antonio and includes McMullen, Frio, Attacose, and Wilson Counties.

Safe Driving Around 18-Wheelers in San Antonio: 3 Essential Tips

What did you eat for lunch today? A sandwich? Pizza? Maybe a burrito bowl? Whatever you had, it was most likely transported to the store or restaurant you got it from via 18-wheeler. They provide an essential service transporting and delivering most of the goods and services we enjoy in Texas.

But that doesn’t mean driving alongside 18-wheelers isn’t dangerous. Let’s take a look at 3 essential tips to keep yourself safe when you’re sharing the road with big rigs in San Antonio.

Tip #1 — Avoid Blind Spots

If you’ve ever driven near an 18-wheeler, you probably have seen a sign that says something along the lines of “If you can’t see my mirrors, I can’t see you” on its rear. 18-wheelers have 4 major blind spots:

• Right Side — Drivers cannot see vehicles for two lanes if they are beside the cabin to the right of the rig.
• Driver’s Side — Drivers cannot see a vehicle slightly behind the cabin area for one lane to the left of the rig.
• Front — Drivers cannot see vehicles that are 20 feet in front of them.
• Back — Drivers cannot see vehicles 30 feet behind them.

Protect yourself by avoiding these blind spots and giving 18-wheelers plenty of distance to the front and back while sharing the road with them.

Tip #2 — Watch Out for Right Turns

Drivers of big rigs go through (or should go through) extensive training to drive the rig safely, but they need a lot of space to make a right turn. If an 18-wheeler needs to make a right turn, do not attempt to turn in the lane beside them — they may need both, and your vehicle could be crushed in the process.

Tip #3 — Drive Respectfully

Sharing the road means respecting other drivers and their safety, even if their presence annoys or inconveniences you. Most 18-wheeler operators are well-trained and keep your safety in mind while driving. Show them respect by giving them plenty of room to merge, putting your phone away, and staying where they can see you. This will protect your life and leave you both with a better driving experience.

Not all big rig operators are courteous and careful. Accidents happen. The pressure is on this holiday season, and all drivers are prone to accidents during this time of year. If you were hurt or lost a loved one in an 18-wheeler accident in San Antonio, call Carabin Shaw.

Hire Carabin Shaw 18-wheeler Accident Attorneys in San Antonio

Transportation companies have big legal teams backing them up — so can you. If you were hurt in a big rig accident in San Antonio, call the law firm that puts their clients first at 800-862-1260 today. We look forward to serving you.

Contacting a Carabin Shaw Attorney is free and does not obligate you to work with the firm.

¹KSAT News Report