There was a crash involving an 18-wheeler in Amarillo, Texas on July 2, 2024. According to reports, an 18-wheeler was attempting to make a left turn from the center lane and hit passenger SUV located in the lane next to it. The SUV became wedged under the semi-truck as a result. Injured were reported. The accident remains under investigation.
The risks of an 18-wheeler making a left turn from the center lane on a multiple lane road are significant and primarily stem from the truck driver’s decision to execute such a maneuver. Large trucks have substantial blind spots, and making a left turn from the center lane without a clear view of all surrounding vehicles can easily result in a collision. The truck driver might not see a smaller vehicle in the adjacent lane, leading to an accident. This type of maneuver is especially hazardous because it involves crossing multiple lanes of traffic, increasing the chances of an unseen vehicle being caught in the truck’s path.
Another critical risk associated with this action is the inability of other drivers to anticipate such an unusual move. Typically, vehicles make left turns from the designated left-turn lane. When an 18-wheeler unexpectedly turns from the center lane, drivers in the adjacent lanes are taken by surprise and may not have enough time to react or avoid a collision. This sudden and unexpected maneuver can lead to severe accidents, as smaller vehicles are often unable to withstand the impact of a collision with such a large and heavy truck.
Furthermore, the length and turning radius of an 18-wheeler exacerbate the danger. These trucks require a wide turning radius, which can encroach into adjacent lanes even more than initially anticipated. As the truck swings left, its trailer can sweep across multiple lanes, potentially striking vehicles that the driver may not have seen. This sweeping motion is particularly dangerous in high-traffic areas where vehicles are closely packed. The truck driver’s misjudgment in making such a turn from the center lane not only endangers nearby vehicles but also creates a chaotic situation that can lead to multi-vehicle accidents.
The responsibility for these risks lies squarely with the truck driver, who is expected to operate their vehicle with a high level of caution and adherence to traffic laws. Professional truck drivers are trained to understand the limitations and specific handling characteristics of their vehicles. Choosing to make a left turn from the center lane is a clear deviation from safe driving practices and demonstrates a disregard for the safety of other road users. The truck driver’s failure to follow proper procedures and to account for the well-being of others on the road is the primary cause of the increased risk of collisions in such scenarios.
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 in Denton, Texas on June 25, 2024. A bicyclist was killed by an 18-wheeler in Houston, Texas on June 28, 2024. There was a rollover crash involving an 18-wheeler carrying a load of pipes in Houston, Texas on June 29, 2024. There was a rollover crash involving an 18-wheeler near Midland, Texas on June 29, 2024. There was a crash involving multiple 18-wheelers near Port Allen, Louisiana on June 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. 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.