Chain-Reaction Collision Involving 18-Wheeler Hauling Fuel Injures 2

According to NBC DFW, a chain-reaction crash involving two separate collisions and three vehicles closed the Sam Rayburn Tollway on a Friday earlier this month. The incident happened near Huffines Boulevard in Lewisville.

Police received reports of the first crash shortly after 3 a.m. Investigators determined that a BMW sedan was traveling in the center northbound lane when it struck the rear of a box truck.

The force of impact left the BMW disabled in the middle of the highway. Before police could arrive to direct traffic away from the scene, an 18-wheeler hauling several thousand gallons of fuel collided with it. The tank then broke away from the truck and flipped over, stopping in the center median.

The driver of the box truck was unharmed, but the motorists in the 18-wheeler and the BMW sustained serious injuries. Responders transported both drivers to Medical City Plano for treatment.

Crews initially had to close all lanes on both sides of the highway to clear the wreckage and conduct hazardous material cleanup because of the fuel. A few of the southbound lanes reopened that afternoon. A short while later, crews were also able to reopen several northbound lanes, but one had to remain closed for further cleanup.

If you were hurt in a rear-end or secondary collision with a drunk, distracted, or reckless driver, you may be entitled to compensation for the damages incurred. Turn to a compassionate and strategic lawyer from the Cooper Law Firm to determine if you have grounds for a claim.

Attorney N. Eric Cooper can interview witnesses, review the police report, gather evidence, and negotiate with the opposing party on your behalf so you can focus on your health. Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a free case evaluation with a truck accident attorney in Marshall.

How Can You Avoid a Rear-End Collision in Traffic?

Rear-end crashes can be devastating, especially for occupants of the second vehicle. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to avoid colliding with the cars ahead of you, including the following:

1. Eliminate Distractions

When you are focusing on anything but the road ahead, you will not notice if the traffic around you slows. This is a surefire way to end up in a rear-end collision. Whenever you get behind the wheel, avoid manual, visual, and cognitive distractions so you can reach your destination safely. 

2. Avoid Tailgating

When you leave plenty of space between your car and vehicle just ahead, you have more time to respond should it stop short. The Texas Department of Insurance encourages motorists to leave at least two seconds between vehicles—and more when road conditions are poor.

3. Drive Defensively

Drivers are often unpredictable. At the end of the day, you should never assume someone is going to make a particular maneuver in traffic just because you would in the same scenario.

Sadly, you can follow all of the tips above and still get hurt in a rear-end wreck. If you sustained injuries in a crash that was not your fault, turn to the Cooper Law Firm.

Contact us online or call 903-297-0037 to schedule a free consultation with a truck accident lawyer in Marshall. You can learn more about collision claims in Texas by visiting truck-accident.usattorneys.com/texas.