Trucker Flees Scene After Striking and Killing Two Motorcyclists

According to the Caller Times, a tragic collision between a tractor-trailer driver and two motorcyclists resulted in two fatalities earlier this month. The crash occurred on a Saturday night shortly before 10:30 p.m. just outside of Refugio.

The Department of Public Safety issued a news release stating that the trucker failed to stop and render aid after the accident. Police managed to stop the driver later in Woodsboro and conducted an arrest for suspicion of fleeing the scene.

Investigators believe the trucker had been traveling northbound on U.S. Highway 77 in the right lane before attempting to turn left in a crossover. The two motorcyclists were also traveling north on the same stretch of road and were riding in the left lane when the trailer struck them.

Both riders sustained fatal injuries in the impact. The incident remains under investigation.

If you were hurt in a truck crash, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other damages. To determine if you have grounds for a claim, turn to the Cooper Law Firm.

We will work closely with your medical care providers and insurance company to ensure you’re being treated properly while your case receives the attention it deserves. Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a free consultation with a truck accident attorney in Tyler.

How Can Motorcyclists Stay Safe When Traveling Near Big Rigs?

In a perfect world, truckers would always look out for motorcyclists, especially when changing lanes or turning. At the end of the day, though, it is up to riders to look out for themselves by driving defensively.

Riders should always exercise caution because motorcycles are inherently dangerous, but they need to be especially careful around big rigs in traffic. Tractor-trailers have much larger blind spots than passenger vehicles, and they need a lot more time and distance to come to a complete stop.

Motorcyclists can reduce the risk of getting in a devastating truck accident by:

• Avoiding traveling in the trucker’s blind spots;
• Maintaining a safe and steady speed when passing;
• Passing on the left to maximize visibility;
• Decelerating when a truck is attempting to pass;
• Accounting for a truck’s wide right turns; and
• Leaving plenty of stopping distance in traffic.

How Can Truckers Avoid Striking Motorcyclists? 

Truckers should always be on the lookout for motorcyclists. Collisions between tractor-trailers and motorcycles are often devastating for the riders involved because they have virtually no protection from the force of impact. Commercial drivers can avoid striking motorcycle riders by:

• Checking all blind spots before making a maneuver;
• Eliminating distractions when behind the wheel and keeping an eye out for smaller vehicles;
• Driving in a predictable manner; and
• Maintaining plenty of stopping distance in traffic.

Sadly, even when both truckers and motorcyclists make every effort to stay safe, wrecks can still result. If you were hurt in an accident despite following the rules of the road, contact the Cooper Law Firm today.

A strategic attorney on our team can handle all the logistics of your case so you can focus on your health. Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a free case evaluation with a truck accident lawyer in Tyler. You can learn more about truck crashes in Texas by visiting the USAttorneys website.