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According to 12 News Now, a collision between a Dodge Charger and an 18-wheeler tank truck on Texas Highway 73 near West Port Arthur Road resulted in the loss of two lives and injured three individuals. The crash, caused by the 18-wheeler's failure to control its speed, occurred just before midnight on June 6, 2023.
According to Jefferson County Precinct Seven Justice of the Peace Brad Burnett, who arrived at the scene just before midnight, the harrowing collision proved fatal for an adult man and woman who were traveling in the ill-fated Dodge Charger. Tragically, they succumbed to their injuries at the crash site. Another passenger, a teenage boy, was critically injured and airlifted to a Houston hospital for urgent medical treatment. The condition of the injured boy remains uncertain at this time.
Meanwhile, two other adults who were also in the Dodge Charger were rushed by ambulance to Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital in Beaumont. Their current condition has yet to be disclosed as well.
Remarkably, the truck driver emerged from the wreckage unharmed. Authorities identified the driver as a man in his 50s hailing from Houston, according to Port Arthur Police Department Chief Timothy Duriso. The investigation is underway to determine the precise factors that led to the driver's failure to control the truck's speed, ultimately resulting in the catastrophic collision.
Attorney contributor Marc Lenahan works at a Texas truck accident law firm representing 18-wheeler accident victims and their families. He recently sat down with us to discuss the legal rights of victims involved in 18-wheeler or semi-truck accidents.
"Truck accidents can often result in severe injuries or even fatalities. Due to the size and weight disparity between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles, collisions involving trucks tend to have more catastrophic consequences. As a truck accident lawyer with years of experience, I feel it is important to inform victims and their families about their legal rights.
Truck drivers are entrusted with the responsibility of operating large, powerful vehicles. Negligent actions such as speeding, reckless driving, distracted driving, fatigue, or driving under the influence can significantly increase the risk of an accident. When a truck driver's negligence leads to injury or death, they can be held liable for the damages caused.
Trucking companies play a crucial role in ensuring the safe operation of their fleets. However, some companies prioritize profits over safety, leading to practices that increase the likelihood of accidents. These may include negligent hiring and training, inadequate vehicle maintenance, unreasonable scheduling, or pressuring drivers to violate hours-of-service regulations. When a trucking company's negligence contributes to an accident, they can be held accountable for the resulting damages.
Commercial trucks require regular inspections and maintenance to ensure their roadworthiness. Failure to address mechanical issues such as faulty brakes, tire blowouts, or steering system malfunctions can result in catastrophic accidents. In some cases, the truck manufacturer or a third-party maintenance provider may be held liable if a defect or improper maintenance contributed to the accident.
Victims of truck accidents and their families have legal rights that are designed to protect their interests and provide compensation for their losses. Victims are often entitled to seek reimbursement for medical bills, including hospitalization, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and ongoing treatment related to the accident. When a truck accident leads to a fatality, the surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and the emotional anguish caused by their loved one's death.
Truck accidents present unique challenges due to their complexity and potential for catastrophic consequences. Understanding the liability factors involved and the legal rights of victims is crucial for pursuing a successful claim. Trucking accident victims or their families are urged to consult with an experienced truck accident lawyer who can guide them through the legal process."
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