There was a deadly 18-wheeler crash near Lowry Crossing, Texas on April 30, 2024. According to reports, an 18-wheeler was traveling eastbound on FM 546 struck two vehicles while on a curve. Eyewitnesses indicated that although the truck of the 18-wheeler remained in its lane, the trailer veered into the lanes of oncoming traffic on the highway. The driver of one of the cars which was struck was killed. Our thoughts and prayers to those impacted by this deadly accident.
Navigating turns is a significant challenge for 18-wheelers due to their size and the complex dynamics between the tractor and the trailer. One of the primary hazards during this maneuver is the trailer’s tendency to leave the lane in which the tractor is traveling, a phenomenon known as “off-tracking” or “trailer swing.” This occurs when the trailer follows a tighter arc than the cab during turns, causing it to encroach into adjacent lanes. On right-hand turns, this can lead to the trailer swinging out into other lanes of the road or even onto the sidewalk, posing serious risks to other vehicles, pedestrians, and property. In left-hand turns, the trailer might swing into oncoming traffic, increasing the risk of head-on collisions.
The risk of off-tracking is particularly acute on tight urban roads and non-standard intersections where the available turning space is limited. Given the long length of 18-wheelers, drivers must often initiate turns from a position that is not intuitively aligned with the intended path of travel. This maneuver requires exceptional skill and precise timing to ensure that the trailer does not collide with other vehicles or objects. Misjudgment in speed or angle can easily result in the trailer cutting corners too sharply or swinging out too wide, both of which can lead to accidents or traffic disruptions.
To mitigate these risks, truck drivers are trained in techniques such as “buttonhooking” or “jug handle” turns, which involve swinging wide before turning to allow the trailer to clear obstacles and stay within the correct lane. However, these techniques require a clear understanding of the trailer’s behavior and ample space to execute safely. In environments where space is constrained, such as crowded city streets or congested traffic conditions, the risk of an improper turn increases significantly. Drivers must remain constantly aware of their vehicle’s position and the movements of nearby traffic to avoid mishaps.
Moreover, ensuring safety during these maneuvers also depends on the vigilance and awareness of other road users. Signage on the truck indicating wide turns can alert other drivers and pedestrians to the need for additional clearance around the truck. Infrastructure improvements, such as designated truck lanes and improved signage at intersections, can also help in reducing the risks associated with large vehicle turns. For road safety, it is crucial that both truck drivers and other road users maintain high levels of caution and respect for the unique challenges posed by 18-wheelers, especially when navigating turns.
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 transporting the base of a wind turbine in Amarillo, Texas on April 24, 2024. 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.
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.