18-Wheeler Crash on I-35 Injures 10—Insights from a Personal Injury Lawyer in Longview

CBS DFW reports on a major collision involving two passenger cars and a big rig on I-35. The accident resulted in a six-hour closure of the southbound lanes after the 18-wheeler flipped over shortly before 2 p.m. on a Thursday

Police diverted traffic off to Keller Hicks until they could reopen the highway. The crash injured 10 people, leaving one in critical condition and two in serious condition.

Truck collisions are often devastating because 18-wheelers are so much larger than passenger vehicles and can cause a significant amount of damage when they flip. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, most fatalities in truck accidents are occupants of passenger vehicles. Debilitating injuries are also common in these kinds of collisions.

If you sustained injuries or lost a loved one in a collision with a big rig, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income, medical bills, and other damages. A Longview truck accident attorney from the Cooper Law Firm will evaluate your case to determine if you have grounds for a claim. Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a free consultation.

How Much Insurance Coverage Do Truck Drivers Carry?

In the case above, 10 people sustained injuries. If a jury determines the trucker was 100 percent liable for the accident, all of the accident victims have the right to pursue compensation from the transportation company and their insurance provider.

The federal government mandates that truckers must carry a certain amount of insurance coverage, which correlates to their vehicle’s total weight. Pursuant to Title 49, Section 387.9 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations, truckers carrying non-hazardous goods with a vehicle weighing more than 10,000 pounds must have at least $750,000 in coverage for bodily injury and property damage.

Truckers with the same size vehicle who are carrying explosives or HAZMAT materials must have at least $5,000,000 in coverage because more extensive damage can occur if they crash. Although $5,000,000 sounds like a lot, medical bills and property damage can add up quickly following a collision, especially if multiple parties sustained injuries.

Does the State of Texas Have Its Own Minimum Coverage Requirements?

Federal regulations regarding insurance coverage are in place because many transportation companies travel around the country; however, each state has its own requirements for interstate vehicles, as well. In the state of Texas, the minimum coverage requirements depend on the size of the vehicle, the kind of cargo it carries, and the extent that it travels.

If you sustained serious injuries in a collision with a negligent trucker who does not have enough coverage to take care of all the damages, a truck accident attorney will help you pursue compensation via other means. Contact the Cooper Law Firm to discuss your case and determine the best way to proceed.

N.Eric Cooper is a truck accident attorney in Texas who will compassionately represent your interests. Mr. Cooper will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and help you fight for the highest possible payout. Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a free consultation.