Texas Department of Transportation (TxDot) officials are warning semi-truck drivers about the dangers of low bridges on non-permitted routes. TxDot reports that truck drivers are disregarding regulations and drive their 18-wheelers over roads that are not designed to handle them or attempt to drive them under low bridges. Officials have reported that this has become an ongoing issue in the Houston area.
The occurrence of bridge strikes has risen in recent years causing significant concerns for vehicular and pedestrian traffic on the state’s most traveled roadways. In Texas, 82 strikes were reported in 2018 compared to 156 total bridge strikes between 2013 and 2017. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, from 2014 to 2018, 13 people died in crashes in which a large truck struck a bridge overpass. These bridge strikes are the result of oversized vehicles that do not meet the posted bridge height limitations.
In Texas, trucking businesses are required to carry a permit to drive on certain highways. These restrictions are greater within city limits. Regardless, many trucking companies fail to obtain the required permit which could not only lead to hefty fines but can also result in catastrophic accidents and can be hazardous for other drivers who may be pelted with fallen debris.
If you or someone you love has been injured as a result of someone else’s negligent acts, contact an experienced attorney at Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner by calling (713) 222-7211 or 1-800-870-9584 for your free consultation. The law firm of Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner is the longest-standing personal injury firm in Texas, and our attorneys are standing by to assist with your claim.