Trucking is vital to the bustling economy of Texas, connecting cities and industries across the Lone Star State. However, the difference in size between tractor-trailers and automobiles increases the risk of serious accidents and severe injuries. Here’s what you need to know about Dallas’s most dangerous trucking routes.
High-Risk Highways
In Dallas, a serious traffic accident can occur on any road. However, certain highways have earned a reputation for being particularly hazardous for car crashes and truck accidents, including the following:
Interstate 35E
Interstate 35E runs through the heart of Dallas. This major north-south highway route connects with Interstate 20 and Highway 67. The risks on Interstate 35E stem from its heavy traffic, especially during rush hours, and its urban congestion. The frequent merging and diverging of traffic, combined with high-speed travel, makes it a frequent site of trucking accidents when drivers aren’t paying attention or disobey traffic laws. Highway construction activity and rush hour traffic further increase the risk of collisions.
Interstate 30
I-30 connects Dallas and Fort Worth. It intersects with major routes such as Interstate 20 and Highway 360. The main dangers on Interstate 30 come from its high traffic volume. The mix of fast-moving vehicles and large trucks along I-30 creates a high potential for commercial truck accidents. Furthermore, the frequent lane changes and exits in this heavily traveled interstate corridor add to the complexity and risk for truckers.
Interstate 45
Interstate 45 runs from Dallas to Houston, crossing through urban areas and intersecting with several major highways, including Interstate 20 and Interstate 10. The long stretch of Interstate 45 poses various risks. In urban areas, the high traffic volume, including many commuters, increases the likelihood of accidents. Weather conditions, particularly in the hurricane-prone Houston area, also contribute to dangerous driving conditions for truckers during much of the year.
Route 175
Route 175 is a state highway connecting Dallas to Jacksonville, intersecting with US 69 and US 175 highways. The primary danger of Route 175 is that it is less developed than interstate highways. Sharp bends, worn road surfaces, and fewer lanes increase the risk of trucking accidents. Additionally, this route has sections with inadequate lighting and severely limited visibility, making nighttime driving particularly hazardous.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Texas
Truck accidents can be devastating. They’re often the result of a variety of factors that compromise safety on the roads. Many factors involve driver error. Others stem from environmental conditions or mechanical failures. Here are some common examples:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Fatigue or drowsy driving
- Aggressive driving behavior
- Reckless driving
- Poor road conditions
- Weather conditions such as fog, rain, or ice
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Improper lane changes
- Following too closely
- Overloading the truck
- Improperly secured cargo
- Lack of training for the driver
- Mechanical failures
- Tire blowouts
- Brake failure
- Ignoring traffic signals
- Inadequate truck maintenance
- Blind spots
- Inexperience with the route
- Misjudgment of a traffic gap or other vehicles’ speed
- Roadway obstructions
- Sudden stops
- Driving at night or in low visibility conditions
- Inadequate surveillance
Texas Truck Accident Statistics
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) tracks traffic accidents involving commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). According to recent crash data:
- There were 38,621 crashes involving commercial motor vehicles throughout Texas in 2022. Of those, 3,999 (10 percent) occurred in Dallas County.
- Statewide, 1,293 truck accidents resulted in suspected serious injuries, and 1,643 accidents resulted in minor injuries.
- Ninety-three truck crashes in Dallas County resulted in suspected serious injuries, and another 113 Dallas County truck crashes caused minor injuries.
- There were 612 fatal crashes involving commercial motor vehicles in Texas in 2022. These crashes resulted in 716 fatalities statewide.
- Dallas County experienced 52 fatal crashes involving commercial motor vehicles in 2022. There were 53 fatalities resulting from these crashes.
Safety Tips for Drivers
Driving on Texas roads, especially along the truck-heavy routes of Dallas, requires vigilance and proactive safety measures. Trucking accidents can develop quickly. Being prepared is key to ensuring your safety and that of others on the road. You can avoid truck accidents by:
- Getting Real-Time Traffic Updates: Use real-time traffic apps such as Google Maps or Waze to get information about traffic congestion, accidents, or road closures on your route. These apps not only help you anticipate delays but also allow you to reroute to avoid potential hazards.
- Maintaining a Safe Following Distance: Always keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the one ahead, especially when following large trucks. This cushion of space gives you time to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic. The general rule is to maintain at least a three-second gap, which should increase in poor weather conditions or heavy traffic.
- Being Mindful of Blind Spots: Trucks have large blind spots, particularly on the side and rear of the truck. The truck driver cannot see vehicles located in those blind spots cannot be seen by the truck driver. Automobile drivers should avoid lingering in truck blind spots. Remember, if you can’t see a truck driver in their side mirror, they can’t see you either.
- Staying Alert and Focused: Distractions are a leading cause of accidents. Stay focused on the road and avoid using your phone, eating, or other activities that take your attention away from driving. Keep an eye out for erratic behavior from other vehicles, especially on routes known for heavy truck traffic. Being alert allows you to react quickly to unexpected situations.
Get Legal Help from Our Experienced Truck Accident Lawyers Near You
If you or someone close to you has been hurt in a truck accident on one of Dallas’s dangerous roads – or anywhere in our city – don’t wait to seek legal assistance from a truck accident attorney. The path to recovery can be tough, but you don’t have to deal with the insurance company alone. Call (214) 999-9999 or complete our contact form for a free consultation. Our experienced team of truck accident attorneys in Dallas at Kraft & Associates, Attorneys at Law, P.C. is ready to guide you through the legal process and demand the compensation you deserve for an accident caused by someone else.
