Catastrophic Houston Truck Accidents Reminds Us of the Importance of Safe Driving
A catastrophic accident took place on Tuesday in southwest Houston involving an 18-wheeler and passenger vehicle.
Details About the Incident
Early Tuesday morning, a driver lost control of their vehicle after speeding and ended up sliding under an 18-wheeler, which resulted in the vehicle being crushed.
According to local news outlets, the driver was speeding in a 65 MPH zone when an officer attempted to pull her over. The driver failed to stop but continued to speed, reaching up to 80 MPH on SH-288. The officer lost sight of the car but continued to drive west on Orem when he spotted the vehicle under the 18-wheeler.
The intersection was shut down for hours and all lanes were blocked.
The driver of the car survived but is currently in critical condition.
Tips for Safe Driving
We are currently in the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer . During these summer months, the rate of accidents and fatal accidents increase substantially, especially for teen drivers. Our Houston truck accident attorneys at Lapeze & Johns would like to remind all drivers – adults and teens alike – to remain vigilant when behind the wheel.
As we travel within town or out-of-state on vacation, we are likely to travel alongside 18-wheelers. Because of this, there are several precautions we should take. As per the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, it is important to follow these rules when driving close to a semi-truck:
- Avoid Blind Spots: Large trucks have huge blind spots, and if you happen to be in one of these areas, there is a chance that the driver of the tractor-trailer cannot see you. Stay clear of these blind spots and slow down or move ahead quickly to stay visible.
- Pass Safely: If you do have a chance to pass the 18-wheeler, make sure the driver can see you at all times. Use your signals and safely maneuver into the lane you want to move into. Do not linger in any blind spot.
- Do Not Cut Off a Truck: Because commercial trucks tend to have drivers seated in higher positions, it can be difficult for them to see vehicles that are close in front of them. This is a blind spot and cutting off a truck can lead to a serious accident.
- Tailgating: Referencing back to the first rule, large trucks have huge blind spots compared to regular motor vehicles. A sudden stop or bad weather can easily lead to you slamming into the backend of the truck.
- Wide Turns: Large trucks need extra room to turn, especially on right-hand turns. Do not try to fit in between a turning vehicle and the curb as your vehicle may get damaged.
- Patience: Honking, driving aggressively, or weaving through traffic because of a desire to get somewhere faster is dangerous and can easily lead to a serious accident.
- Always Wear Your Safety Belt: Always buckle up when on the road. This includes passengers as well. Safety belts save lives.
- Focus on the Road: If you need to make a phone call, send a text, or attend to anything else, get off the road and stop. Do not drive while distracted.
- Do Not Drive Fatigued : If you find yourself getting drowsy when behind the wheel, find the nearest rest stop or stop at nearby restaurant/convenience store and take a break. If there is another person in the vehicle, ask them to take a turn driving.
- Never Drink and Drive : Under no circumstance should you drive under the influence of a substance.
Contact Lapeze & Johns today at (713) 739-1010 if you are involved in a truck accident.
Source: ABC13
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