Houston Tanker Truck Accident Attorney
There is a certain type of truck on the roadway called a tanker truck. A tanker truck is a large vehicle similar to a semi truck that hauls liquids and gases. Some common materials include gasoline, diesel, ethanol, chemicals, and household products, but these trucks can also haul water, wine, milk, and juices. In some cases, the material can be highly flammable, and in the event of a crash, a person could suffer catastrophic injuries and even death. If you or a loved one has been a victim of such a crash, contact an experienced Houston tanker truck accident attorney who can fight your case and ensure you get the compensation you need to pay for injuries and other damages.
Causes of Tanker Truck Accidents
Tanker trucks can get involved in crashes in various ways. Some common causes include:
- Aggressive driving. Tailgating and swerving can cause accidents.
- Trucks are supposed to operate at lower speeds for a reason. Going too fast can make it harder to stop in time.
- Driver fatigue. Long work shifts, strict deadlines, and unrealistic travel schedules can cause a driver to feel overly tired. This can cause them to fall asleep behind the wheel.
- Distracted driving. When a driver is distracted by cell phones, eating, reading, and other activities, they may not be able to quickly react to what’s in front of them.
- Impaired driving. Alcohol and drug use is common among truck drivers. However, these substances can impair driving and make accidents more likely to occur.
Rollovers and Spills
Because tanker trucks often carry hazardous materials, rollovers and spills are a concern. There are several factors that can cause rollovers and spills, such as the following:
- Improperly filled tank. If the tank is not filled properly, the liquid inside will move about freely. This can cause the driver to lose control, as the truck’s weight will shift.
- Speeding around a curve. Tanker trucks have a high center of gravity, so speeding around a curve can cause a truck to tip over.
- Stopping too quickly. Tanker trucks require more time and distance to make a complete stop. Having to stop quickly can cause weight imbalances, which can be dangerous.
- Lack of training. Driving a tanker truck requires a significant amount of training. In addition, those who load and maintain these vehicles must also be fully trained. When there is a lack of training, accidents can occur and the trucking company can be held liable.
Contact a Houston Tanker Truck Accident Attorney Today
Tanker trucks often carry flammable liquids and materials. In the event of a crash, this cargo can cause explosions and fires, which can lead to serious injuries and even death.
These accidents can be complex, but The West Law Office can help you get adequate compensation for your injuries. Contact us right away so we can get started on your case. We will work aggressively to get you a favorable outcome. Fill out the online form or call 281-347-3247 to schedule a free consultation with a Houston tanker truck accident attorney today.
