There was a deadly semi-truck crash in Tom Green County, Texas on May 21, 2024. According to reports, an 18-wheeler tanker truck backed over a pedestrian. The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene. The victim has been identified as Robert Stevens. Additional details regarding the accident have not yet been released.
Backing up an 18-wheeler poses significant risks to pedestrians due to limited visibility and maneuverability. Unlike smaller vehicles, 18-wheelers have extensive blind spots that make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians directly behind or alongside the truck. These blind spots, commonly referred to as “no-zones,” can conceal pedestrians from the driver’s view, especially in congested areas such as loading docks, parking lots, and urban streets. The height and length of an 18-wheeler further exacerbate this issue, increasing the likelihood of a tragic accident if a pedestrian is in the vehicle’s path while it is reversing.
The sheer size and weight of 18-wheelers mean that even a low-speed collision can result in severe injuries or fatalities for pedestrians. When an 18-wheeler backs up, its large trailer can obscure visibility and limit the driver’s ability to make precise maneuvers, making it challenging to detect and respond to pedestrians in the vicinity. The slow reaction time and long stopping distances of these heavy vehicles add to the danger, as the driver may not be able to halt the truck quickly enough to avoid a collision. The consequences of such accidents can be catastrophic, resulting in severe trauma, fractures, internal injuries, or even death for pedestrians.
Mitigating these risks requires a combination of technological solutions and safety practices. Installing advanced safety systems such as backup cameras, proximity sensors, and alarms can help drivers detect pedestrians and other obstacles when reversing. Additionally, drivers should receive comprehensive training on the unique challenges of operating 18-wheelers in pedestrian-dense environments and be encouraged to use a spotter when backing up in areas with limited visibility. By implementing these measures, the risks associated with 18-wheelers backing up can be significantly reduced, enhancing safety for both drivers and pedestrians
There have been a number of recent accidents involving vehicles, resulting in severe injuries and sometimes death. There was a crash involving a concrete truck in San Antonio, Texas on May 10, 2024. There was a deadly crash involving an 18-wheeler in Lufkin, Texas on May 12, 2024. There was a deadly crash involving an 18-wheeler in Wise County, Texas on May 14, 2024. There was a deadly crash involving a dump truck in Mustang Ridge, Texas on May 20, 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. 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.