A familiar scene unfolded earlier this week as another big rig struck the Houston Avenue bridge over the Katy Freeway, blocking several lanes on I-10 during a busy Monday morning commute. There were no reports of injuries, but the incident underscores the repeated problem of trucks slamming into the Katy Freeway/Houston Avenue bridge from failing to clear the overpass.
Low clearance bridge strikes are surprisingly common and usually the result of driver error. Truck drivers must continually be aware of structures and truck-restricted areas. Failure to do so often results in serious accidents, injuries or even death. Despite mechanisms in place to avoid these types of accidents, including a TxDOT detection system for anyone with a load that will fail to safely pass under some bridges, these accidents keep occurring. The latest incident at the Houston Avenue bridge will hopefully result in corrective changes to prevent further accidents in the future.
Too often, negligent truck drivers cause accidents that never should have happened. It is a trucker’s responsibility to exercise due care while behind the wheel. Truck drivers should eliminate distractions within the cab such as reading material, food and using a hand-held electronic device. They should also limit external distractions by focusing on the road instead of billboards, other vehicles or accidents. Most importantly, truck drivers must be aware of their load height and be on the lookout for low clearance structures.
As an experienced personal injury law firm in Texas, we are able to assist anyone injured by 18 wheelers, resulting in medical bills, pain & suffering and diminished lifestyle.
If you or a loved one have been injured in an accident, you may fill out our online Case Evaluation Form, or call our office directly at 713-CALL-BEN (713-225-5236).
We offer FREE case evaluations and do not charge a fee unless we have obtained compensation for you.
Ben Bronston & Associates
