You may see tractor-trailers throughout Austin. Commercial trucks are vital to the United States’ supply chain. However, these large trucks can cause catastrophic accidents, with over 70% of the injuries and deaths being occupants of other vehicles.
One reason large trucks are deadly in crashes is their size. Tractor-trailers are much longer, wider, and heavier than standard passenger vehicles.
How Long Are Tractor-Trailers in Texas?
Tractor-trailers cannot exceed maximum dimensions without a special permit. Generally, a semi-trailer in Texas can be 59 feet long, with each trailer in a two-trailer setup being 28.5 feet long. A combination of up to three vehicles long has a maximum length of 65 feet.
What Is the Average Tractor-Trailer’s Width, Height, and Weight?
According to federal regulations, a tractor-trailer can be up to 102 inches wide. In comparison, the average passenger vehicle’s width is about 69 inches. Federal regulations do not set a height limit, but many states typically restrict tractor-trailers to up to 14 feet tall.
Tractor-trailers can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. The average passenger vehicle weighs between 3,000 and 6,000 pounds.
A passenger vehicle hit by a commercial truck can easily be crushed. A passenger vehicle is usually incapable of withstanding the size of a tractor-trailer.
Are There Regulations that Govern Commercial Truck Drivers?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets rules and regulations for commercial motor vehicles. For example, the FMCSA sets the requirements for obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and monitoring truck drivers for alcohol and drug use.
The FMCSA also sets regulations for hours of service, which limit the number of hours a driver can operate a truck without rest and sleep breaks. There are also rules for carrying specific types of loads and truck maintenance.
The trucking industry regulations are designed to reduce truck accidents and protect everyone on the road. However, truck accidents happen each day.
Common Causes of Large Truck Accidents in Austin, TX
Because of their size and weight, tractor-trailers are at an increased risk of accidents. Unlike other vehicles, large trucks cannot stop quickly or make sudden maneuvers. Their size and weight make them susceptible to rollover and jackknife accidents. Large trucks also have a high risk of rear-end accidents because stopping them takes longer.
Unfortunately, negligence is a common factor in many truck accidents.
Common reasons for truck accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence
- Speeding and reckless driving
- Drowsy and fatigued driving
- Following too closely
- Dangerous maneuvers and turns
- Failing to check blind spots
- Negligent maintenance and repairs
- Overloading and improperly secured cargo
Any party that contributed to the cause of the crash, including the trucking company and the truck driver, could be liable for damages caused by a truck accident. Manufacturers, loaders, shippers, maintenance facilities, and government agencies could also be liable.
Filing a Truck Accident Claim
Truck accident claims are complicated personal injury cases. Fighting a large trucking company and its insurance provider can be overwhelming. An Austin truck accident lawyer can help you gather the evidence you need to prove your claim.
A truck crash attorney can help by:
- Hiring experts to assist in proving that the trucking company and other parties are responsible for the crash
- Documenting your damages and calculating the value of your claim
- Hiring medical specialists and other experts to assist in proving the extent of your damages
- Preparing the documents and paperwork for claims and lawsuits
- Negotiating a fair settlement for your damages or taking your case to trial
Preparing a truck accident claim can be challenging, especially when you sustain severe injuries. A personal injury lawyer can help determine if your truck accident case could lead to compensation.
Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney About Your Truck Accident Case
Schedule a free consultation with a truck accident attorney before accepting a settlement from an insurance company or at-fault party. They can advise if an offer is fair or if you should fight for more money.
Contact our Truck Accident Lawyers at McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers for Legal Help With Your Case
If you’ve been injured, contact your nearest McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve in Austin, TX and Salt Lake City, UT.
McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers – Austin, TX Office
502 W 14th St, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 474-0222
McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers – Salt Lake City, UT Office
650 S 500, Suite 290, Salt Lake City, UT 84104
(512) 474-0222
