There was an 18-wheeler accident in San Antonio, Texas on May 3, 2024. According to reports, an 18-wheeler was in a crash with a motorcycle. At the time, the semi-truck was attempting to make a right turn into a parking lot. The motorcyclist attempted to pass the 18-wheeler on the right side, and collided with the truck. The motorcyclist sustained critical injuries as a result.
Motorcyclists face significant risks when 18-wheelers make turns on the road. One of the primary dangers is the truck’s large blind spots. These blind spots, often referred to as “no-zones,” make it difficult for the truck driver to see nearby motorcycles, especially when the motorcycle is alongside the trailer. When the truck driver initiates a turn, the sudden movement can catch motorcyclists off guard, leading to sideswipe collisions if they are unaware of the truck’s intentions or fail to anticipate its trajectory.
Another critical hazard arises from the wide turning radius required for 18-wheelers to navigate corners. Trucks often need to swing left before making a right turn or vice versa. This maneuver can result in a “squeeze play,” where a motorcyclist mistakenly believes there’s enough room to pass the truck, only to be caught between the truck and the curb or a guardrail when the truck completes its turn. This misjudgment can lead to serious injury or a potentially fatal accident.
Road conditions also play a crucial role in increasing risks for motorcyclists during truck turns. Debris, slick surfaces, or uneven pavement can cause a motorcycle to lose traction. If a truck turns across a lane with such hazards, a motorcyclist may not be able to brake or maneuver quickly enough to avoid the truck’s path. The reduced stability of motorcycles compared to cars makes them particularly susceptible to sudden directional changes.
Finally, driver communication and awareness are essential to preventing accidents. Motorcyclists may not always anticipate the turning intentions of an 18-wheeler, especially if the truck’s indicators or brake lights are not functioning correctly. Truck drivers, in turn, may be unfamiliar with how vulnerable motorcyclists are to sudden shifts in speed and direction. Increased caution, clear signaling, and better understanding between both parties can help reduce the risk of these dangerous encounters.
There have been a number of recent accidents involving vehicles, resulting in severe injuries and sometimes death. There was a deadly crash involving an 18-wheeler carrying an oversized load in Temple, Texas on April 27, 2024. There was a crash involving an 18-wheeler in Rusk County, Texas on April 29, 2024. There was a deadly crash involving an 18-wheeler and pedestrian in Comfort, Texas on April 29, 2024. There was a deadly 18-wheeler crash near Lowry Crossing, Texas on April 30, 2024.
Spagnoletti Law Firm has attorneys licensed in Texas, Florida, New Mexico and New York. We have handled numerous cases involving catastrophic auto and bus 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 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 an accident. Please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 or to learn more about your legal rights.