A recent report has found a 40% increase in fatality traffic accidents in the Eagle Ford shale region in 2012 as compared to 2011. This report was done based on an analysis of data released from the Texas Department of Transportation. The numbers revealed 248 deaths in 2012 versus 177 the year before.
These numbers are no surprise to those who live and work in the industry. Because of the increase in oil and gas in the area, there has been a sharp increase in the number of cars and, more importantly, bigger trucks driving the roads of the area — most of which were not designed for this type and amount of traffic. Many of these roads are narrow, rural roads, and were not constructed with shoulders or other safety features.
Also of significance is the increase in the number of vehicle collisions where people suffered both serious and fatal injuries. Although the increase is much smaller (1.9%), it is very likely this number will increase as the road conditions continue to deteriorate. Roads that once carried 200 vehicles per day now have 2,400 vehicles traveling them per day. With these numbers, it is a matter of time before a newsworthy catastrophic event occurs.
If you or someone you know have been seriously injured in a truck accident in the Eagle Ford Shale area, contact the attorneys at Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner by calling (713) 222-7211 or 713-222-7211.