Truck Accidents: Bigger in Texas

Everything is bigger in Texas, including the scale of their attempts to make sure that the trucks that drive I-10, I-45, I-20, I-35, US 59 and the other major roadways are safe. The plan is called “Operation Roadcheck,” and it’s been going on for twenty-seven years now. But just because the truckers know that it’s coming doesn’t mean the authorities aren’t still catching more than their fair share of problems.

In fact, it’s downright scary just how many problems are only caught because of this large-scale program. In 2013, nearly 20 percent of the trucks inspected had major problems, and 2014 wasn’t much better. And a shocking amount of the problems are major enough that the inspectors are forced to pull them off the road entirely until those deficiencies are fixed.

There are a lot of things that can be wrong with a big truck, and most of them hold the potential to seriously injure or even kill. Potential problems include:

• Wear and tear on brakes, which is a very big problem when the brakes are trying to stop thousands of pounds
• Improperly secured cargo, which could fall off at any time and cause a major accident behind them
• Hazardous materials improperly stored or ventilated
• An over-loaded truck bearing too much weight
• Wear and tear on engine and other parts, leading to improper steering and other dangers

It is utterly terrifying to think that one-fifth of the big rigs on the highways might be suffering a major problem, and so it’s no surprise just how many people are injured or killed in trucking accidents.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a trucking accident, there is no guarantee that negligence wasn’t too blame. Some of the trucks that are cited are back on the road incredibly quickly, and you’ll want to know all you can about the safety record of the vehicle that caused the accident. To help you get the answers you need, please contact an attorney who is familiar with the process of making sure that negligent parties are held accountable.