There was a deadly 18-wheeler crash near Albuquerque, New Mexico on March 7, 2024. According to reports, around 3:00 am this morning an 18-wheeler in the westbound lanes of Interstate 40 crossed over the center line into the oncoming lanes of traffic. Multiple vehicles were involved in the crash, and two people were killed. The accident remains under investigation. Our thoughts and prayers go out to those impacted by this tragic accident.
Driving 18-wheelers during late night or early morning hours introduces unique hazards, posing significant risks not only to truck drivers but also to all road users. The reduced visibility under the cloak of darkness significantly heightens the danger of accidents. Headlights and streetlights, while helpful, cannot fully compensate for the loss of natural light, making it more challenging for drivers to spot obstacles, road signs, and other vehicles, especially smaller ones that might be in a truck’s blind spots. This diminished visibility requires heightened vigilance from truck drivers and necessitates the use of reflective markings and proper lighting on all vehicles to enhance detectability.
Moreover, the issue of driver fatigue plays a critical role in the safety of 18-wheeler operations during these off-peak hours. The human body’s natural circadian rhythms can lead to decreased alertness and slower reaction times during late night and early morning hours, even with sufficient rest. For truck drivers who are often on long hauls, the monotony of the road can exacerbate these effects, increasing the risk of drowsy driving accidents. Regulatory measures, such as Hours of Service (HOS) regulations, are designed to combat fatigue by limiting driving hours and mandating rest periods. However, adherence to these rules and the self-monitoring of fatigue levels remain essential practices for ensuring safety.
Additionally, late-night driving often coincides with an increased likelihood of encountering impaired drivers on the road, further elevating the risks for 18-wheelers and other vehicles. Alcohol and drug impairment among drivers peak during nighttime hours, particularly on weekends, leading to a higher incidence of erratic driving behavior and accidents. For 18-wheeler drivers, navigating these hazards requires constant vigilance, defensive driving skills, and a comprehensive understanding of the challenges posed by night driving. It underscores the importance of ongoing driver education on the risks associated with late-night or early morning driving and the adoption of best practices to mitigate these dangers, ensuring the safety of all road users.
There have been a number of recent accidents involving vehicles, resulting in severe injuries and sometimes death. There was an accident between an 18-wheeler and a train in Gulfport, Mississippi on February 20, 2023. There was a crash involving a charter bus and multiple passenger vehicles in Burlington County, New Jersey on February 25, 2023. There was an 18-wheeler crash in Robertson County, Texas on March 1, 2024. There was an 18-wheeler crash in Tatum, Texas on March 4, 2024. An 18-wheeler collided with an abandoned in Vidor, Texas on March 7, 2024.
Spagnoletti Law Firm has attorneys licensed in Texas, Florida, New Mexico and New York. We have handled numerous cases involving 18-wheeler accidents in both federal and state court across the country. Our attorneys have extensive experience and the skills needed to aggressively represent the families of loved ones who have lost their lives or been seriously injured in a trucking or commercial vehicle accident. The experienced 18-wheeler accident attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm have previously been involved in similar cases and can help you understand your rights if you or a loved one was involved in a trucking accident. Please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 or to learn more about your legal rights.