Why Does Texas Lead the Nation in Truck Accidents?

It is true when they say everything is bigger in Texas and this is true for the number of truck accidents that happen in The Lone Star state. Year after year, Texas leads the nation in truck accidents and the reasons go far beyond its large population. Although Texas does have one of the largest populations in the U.S., it also has unique geographic, economic, and transportation factors that create the perfect conditions for a higher number of truck accidents. Our San Antonio truck accident attorney explains in greater detail below.

The Most Miles of Roadway

Texas has more miles of roadway than any other state in the country. These serve as an important transportation corridor for goods that are being carried across the nation. Interstate highways such as the I-10, I-20, I-35, and I-45 carry large amounts of freight traffic each and every day. Trucks traveling from the Midwest, the Gulf Coast, Mexico, and ports in California often pass through Texas, which creates very heavy volumes of commercial traffic.

Major International Trade

Texas is also a main hub for international trade. Bordering Mexico, the state handles huge amounts of cross-border freight entering the United States through cities such as El Paso and Laredo. The supply chain in North America depends heavily on the highways in Texas, meaning commercial trucks operate 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. According to the National Safety Council, Texas regularly has the highest number of truck accident fatalities in the country.

The State’s Strong Economy

Another factor contributing to the high incidence of truck accidents in Texas is the state’s strong economy. In addition to the large oil and gas operations the state is known for, it is also home to ports, manufacturing centers, distribution hubs, and warehouses that rely on the trucking industry. Heavy trucks regularly transport fuel, equipment, materials, and water. The Texas Department of Transportation has reported that commercial vehicle traffic is a known contributor to congestion and serious accidents, particularly in energy-producing areas.

Driver Fatigue

Driver fatigue also plays a role in Texas truck accidents. Long stretches of highway, demanding delivery deadlines, and overnight freight schedules can create dangerous driving conditions for truck drivers. Certain routes in Texas involve hours of uninterrupted driving through remote areas, which reduces reaction times as the risk of fatigued driving increases.

Urban Congestion

Increasing the danger even further is congestion in urban areas. Cities such as San Antonio, Dallas, and Houston experience heavy traffic congestion, particularly around shipping routes and freight corridors. Crowded highways, stop-and-go traffic, and bottlenecks all increase the chance of accidents involving commercial trucks.

Our Truck Accident Attorney in San Antonio Can Help 

There are many reasons innocent people become injured on the roadways in Texas every day. If you have been hurt, our San Antonio truck accident attorney at the Law Office of Israel Garcia can help. Our experienced attorney can review the facts of your case, determine who is liable for your injuries, and guide you through the process of filing a claim so it is as easy as possible for you. Call us now at 210-LAW-9999 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help.

Source:

injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/large-trucks/data-details/