Trucking Accidents

When drivers operate a truck or bus that weighs over 26,000 pounds, they’re required to have a Commercial Motor Vehicle Driver’s license or "CDL." To obtain a CDL, the driver has to undergo additional training on how to safely operate large commercial vehicles and the federal safety laws—referred to as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations—that govern all commercial drivers, as well as the trucking and bus companies that employ them. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (also referred to as the "Rules Of The Road") are designed to prevent truck and bus accidents by regulating everything from the number of hours drivers can drive and how much sleep they should receive to the physical conditions (like Obstructive Sleep Apnea) that disqualify drivers from being on the road.

The Texas Department of Transportation reports that trucks account for 6 percent of the state’s total traffic crashes. However, they are involved in 15 percent of all crashes that result in death.

The typical size and weight of an 18-wheeler makes a difference. A fully loaded rig weighs up to 80,000 pounds, while a passenger car weighs around 6,000 pounds. In a collision, the smaller car – and its occupants – stands little chance of avoiding serious harm. If you are a loved one have been injured due to an 18 wheeler, contact Monty G. Murry at the Murry Law Office. The consultation is always free and you pay no attorney's fees unless and until your claim is resolved.