Trucking plays an integral role in both our national and regional economies. However, tractor-trailer trucks also pose a serious danger to Texas residents, causing thousands of injuries from Houston truck accidents each year.
Due to the force behind tractor-trailer trucks, other drivers involved in these accidents are usually seriously injured or killed. One out of every 8 fatal accidents in the U.S. is caused by an 18-wheeler, even though these trucks are vastly outnumbered by other vehicles.
Today, with tractor-trailer trucks getting bigger and heavier than ever, we face added danger in these wrecks. Larger trucks are harder to maneuver, and are more likely to get in an accident. Plus, with the added weight and force behind them, they are more likely to cause serious damage.
Double-trailer trucks are 32 percent more likely to be involved in fatal accidents than single-trailer trucks. They are also 200 percent more likely to be involved in interstate highway crashes, and have higher safety risks per vehicle mile traveled than smaller trucks.
The benefit of larger trucks is clear for the trucking companies. They get to send more cargo with each cab, thus reducing costs in drivers, fuel, and engine maintenance. You could also argue that double-trailer trucks are more environmentally friendly, as they use less gas to deliver twice as much cargo.
However, the safety of Texas residents should play a large role in this debate. If double-trailer trucks are more dangerous to drive, and more likely to cause or contribute to fatal Houston truck accidents, we have to think twice about allowing them on our roadways.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a wreck with an 18-wheeler, you know personally the destruction that one can cause. Negligent truck drivers, who drive fatigued, distracted or even drunk, should not be armed with more tools to injure or kill Texas residents.
Call the Houston truck accident lawyers at Denena & Points today if you or someone you know has been injured in an 18-wheeler crash. We may be able to earn you compensation for your medical bills, ongoing care, missed time at work, emotional pain and suffering, and more.
Call our Houston truck accident lawyers for a free consultation on your case today. You can reach us toll free at (877) 307-9500.