Brownsville Man Dead After Car Accident

Posted on Sunday, June 14th, 2020 at 5:47 pm    

On the early morning of Sunday, June 8th, a 36-year-old man was pronounced dead after he crashed his truck onto a semi-trailer.

Details About The Incident

According to a press release issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), a semi-trailer was attempting to back up into the grassy portions of the north side of State Highway 4. 

As the semi-trailer was backing up, a white pickup truck, operated by the 36-year-old man, was traveling on the west side of State Highway 4 and ended up striking the rear of the semi-trailer.

The driver of the pickup truck was pronounced dead at the scene. He was accompanied by 4 female passengers, all who were rushed to the nearest hospital. Texas DPS is still currently investigating the specific details that led up to the accident. 

A Brief Overview on The Dangers of Late Night Driving

Driving at night can serve as a tremendous danger to drivers all across the United States. In fact, it is estimated that approximately 50% of all traffic fatalities occur during night time.

While each car accident that occurs at night is different, some of the biggest factors that lead to nighttime accidents include:

1. Low Visibility

The less light you have means the less time you may have to react to something in front of you. It’s no secret that night time driving is harder than driving during the day because of a lack of visibility, but this fact is also exacerbated by the age of the person driving.

For instance, a 50-year-old driver with poorer vision may need more light in order to properly react to an obstruction in the road when compared to a 30-year-old. According to the American Optometric Association, drivers aged 60 and older may be more at risk of being involved in an accident due to age-related vision changes and complications, especially at night.

2. Driving Fatigue

On top of having less visibility on the road, exhaustion, illnesses, or lack of proper sleep can all contribute to nighttime car accidents.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, it is estimated that there are approximately 100,000 police-reported car accidents as a result of drowsy driving on an annual basis, which results in 71,000 injuries and 1,500 fatalities every year. 

The best way to avoid such accidents would be by getting the proper amount of rest, especially if you are in for a long drive.

3. Driving Under the Influence

Driving under the influence of alcohol or any other substance is not only illegal, but it is also dangerous, and impaired driving serves as one of the biggest threats to anyone on the road at night.

In fact, in 2018, 26% of all motor-vehicle fatalities in the state of Texas were caused by drivers operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, where the most common hour for these accidents occurred between 2:00 a.m. – 2:59 a.m.

Useful Tips When Driving At Night

The following tips should be taken into consideration when driving at night as they may, in fact, save your life one day:

  • Aim your headlights correctly, and make sure they are cleaned appropriately.
  • Slow down when needed in order to appropriately match your vision and your reaction timing.
  • Be aware of any oncoming lights.
  • Be cautious when driving through intersections, and make sure to look both ways before proceeding.
  • Do not wear anything that may reduce your vision like sunglasses when driving at night.
  • Have the proper amount of rest prior to driving at night in order to have a stable and focused mindset.
  • If you plan on consuming alcohol, make plans ahead of time by having a designated driver take you home or use a rideshare service. This is to ensure both the safety of the other drivers on the road and yours as you head home.

McAllen Car Accident Lawyers Ready To Seek Justice!

As aggravating as it might be to suffer traumatizing injuries–or worse, lose a loved one as a result of a car accident–take heart that legal help can help make things right.

The Brownsville car accident attorneys of J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys are here to serve those victims of a catastrophic car accident as a result of a negligent driver and will help the fight for the rightful compensation and justice they deserve.

Civil Justice is only a FREE consultation away. Contact J. Gonzales Injury Attorneys today.

Book My FREE Consultation Now

Source: Valley Central


San Antonio Woman Loses Her Life in Overnight Rollover Crash

Posted on Friday, June 12th, 2020 at 4:10 pm    

On the early morning of Friday, June 5th, a 32-year-old woman fell victim to a fatal rollover accident on the Northwest side of San Antonio.

Details About the Incident

According to police, the accident occurred at approximately 3:30 a.m. in between La Cantera and Camp Bullis Road. The woman was driving a white vehicle headed eastbound within the westbound lanes of I-10. As she was doing so, she struck the concrete divider between the two lanes.

The vehicle went westbound and crashed into the divider, causing the vehicle to flip over and catch on fire. It was reported that the woman was ejected from the vehicle during the rollover and sustained multiple blunt force injuries that ultimately led to her death.

Emergency crews attempted to perform life-saving measures, but she was pronounced dead at the scene. No other vehicles were involved. 

What Are Rollover Accidents, and How Do They Occur?

Rollover accidents are known to be one of the most fatal types of motor vehicle accidents that can occur. In fact, they account for 35% of all fatal car accidents across the United States. Despite how “state-of-the-art ”a vehicle may be regarding safety features, there is no vehicle on the market today that can prevent a rollover. 

These types of accidents can be very complex. For the most part, 85% of these accidents are only single-vehicle accidents, and 40% of fatal rollovers occur when the vehicle crashes into a physical object, both of which can lead to severe, life-altering injuries and/or death.

In fact, the larger and more narrow the vehicle may be, the more at risk it may be at rolling over due to their higher center of gravity. An awkwardly sharp turn or swerve, driving in unsafe road conditions, excessive speeding, distracted driving, and driving-under-the-influence can also play significant roles that cause rollover accidents.

McAllen Car Accident Attorneys Ready to Serve You

If you or someone you love were involved in a rollover accident, seek out medical attention as soon as you possibly can as you may not know how severe your injuries may be. Once you have received the necessary medical care, it is crucial to consult with the McAllen car accident lawyer of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys as soon as you possibly can.

Our trustworthy and compassionate attorneys can determine what negligent factors may have led up to your rollover accident and evaluate what legal options may be available in order to seek the appropriate financial compensation you deserve.

Don’t let the trauma and uncertainty of a rollover accident keep you from getting the compensation you need.

Book My FREE Consultation Now

Source: KSAT


Man Dies After Late Night Hit-and-Run Accident in Edinburg

Posted on Friday, June 12th, 2020 at 1:06 am    

On Sunday, May 31, an auto-pedestrian vehicle accident occurred in Edinburg where a man died after being struck by a vehicle.

Details About the Incident

According to local authorities, the accident occurred at approximately 10:17 p.m. between FM 2812 and Brushline Road in Edinburg. The victim was walking southbound on Brushline Rd. trying to cross over towards FM 2812.

As he was crossing the street, a 2013 Silver Chevrolet Impala was traveling eastbound on FM 2812, striking the man and then fleed the scene immediately after. The man was taken to the nearest hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

Police located the suspect and arrested the man responsible on Thursday, June 4th.

An Overview On Auto-Pedestrian Accidents 

Auto-pedestrian accidents, more specifically hit-and-runs accidents, are most notably known as one of the most lethal threats to pedestrians across the country.

These incidents when a driver fails to give the right of way to a pedestrian, striking them as a consequence. An accident is known as a hit-and-run when the driver fails to stop and give aid to the person harmed in the accident.

In 2018, there was a total of 6,283 pedestrian fatalities within the United States, and it accounted for 17% of all traffic crash fatalities within the country. Additionally, 81% of these deaths occurred within urban areas and 20% of these accidents were considered hit-and-run incidents.

As far as the state of Texas goes, there were a total of 621 pedestrian fatalities in 2018. Within the first 6 months of that same year, Texas, along with four other states, accounted for 46% of all auto-pedestrian accidents throughout the entire United States.

Shockingly enough, according to the AARP, the McAllen-Mission-Edinburg area ranked as the 20th most dangerous metropolitan area for pedestrians in the country.

Crucial Tips To Keep In Mind As A Pedestrian

While you might not be operating a vehicle, per se, it is important to understand that as a pedestrian, you must comply with all traffic rules and guidelines just as you would if you were driving.

Stay safe while walking down the street by doing the following:

  • Use Sidewalks: Sidewalks are for pedestrians to walk on safely. If for whatever reason there is no designated sidewalk, the best thing to do is to walk facing–and as far away from–traffic as possible.
  • Use the Crosswalk: When trying to cross over the street, if available, press the button on the nearest designated push-to-walk button in order to safely cross the street. If there is no such button available, make eye contact with any drivers to make sure they see you, and wait for them to come to a stop before you cross. Avoid jaywalking as it can put you and other drivers in a very dangerous position. 
  • Make Yourself Visible: In 2018, it was reported that 26% of pedestrian deaths occurred in crashes between the hours of 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., and 24% occurred from 9 p.m. through midnight. When walking or cycling in darker hours, it is important to carry a flashlight and wear bright, reflective gear to make sure that other drivers can see you.
  • Avoid Distractions: When attempting to cross the road, refrain from using your phone at all costs, as not paying attention to the road can result in a tragic, and costly, accident.

Injured In a Hit-and-Run Accident? You Deserve Justice!

Being involved in a horrific hit-and-run accident while attempting to cross the street can be both physically catastrophic and mentally traumatizing. While there might be anguish and confusion, reaching out to an attorney can be your first step towards proper recovery.

The McAllen car accident lawyer of J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys are here to serve those victims across the Rio Grande Valley to get the appropriate financial compensation they deserve.

If you or a loved one suffered significant injuries as a direct result of a hit-and-run, contact J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today for a FREE case evaluation!

Book My FREE Consultation Now

Source: The Monitor


Early Morning Single-Vehicle Accident in San Antonio Left Woman In Critical Condition

Posted on Monday, June 8th, 2020 at 7:17 pm    

On the early morning of Wednesday, June 3rd, a woman was involved in a severe single-vehicle car accident and was transported to the nearest hospital to treat her injuries.

Details About the Incident

According to local authorities, the accident took place at approximately 7 a.m. and happened near Interstate 35, within the 8500 block of Somerset Road.

While specific details are still being investigated, from what was gathered, the driver struck a pole, causing her vehicle to lose control, spin, and strike a second pole. 

The severity of the accident caused a power outage within the surrounding area, and police were able to rescue the driver by using Jaws of Life to get her out of the vehicle. Although the woman was reportedly left in critical condition, she was still able to communicate with the police and was taken to the nearest hospital to treat her injuries.

What To Know About Single-Vehicle Accidents 

Single-vehicle accidents are known as one of the deadliest types of car accidents. In fact, in 2018 single-vehicle car accidents accounted for 53% of all motor vehicle accident fatalities in the United States.

These types of accidents usually occur when a driver loses control of the vehicle, goes off to either side of the road, and crashes into a physical object such as a light pole, street sign, or a tree.

Approximately 51% of all crash fatalities that happened in 2018 across the state of Texas were single-vehicle car accidents.

In that same year, there were a total number of 1,289 single-vehicle accident fatalities that occurred on Texas roadways, 35.42% which accounted for the state’s motor vehicle accident fatalities for that year alone. 

The Dedicated Legal Representation You Need 

While being involved in a car accident can be physically, mentally, and emotionally painful, dealing with the insurance companies and getting the right settlement claim for your injuries can be as equally as excruciating, especially if they are trying to undercut or deny your claim. This is where getting experienced legal representation comes in.

The McAllen car accident attorneys of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys can act as a liaison for victims of car accidents in their dealings with insurance companies, and we can also help them get the proper help and financial compensation they need if they do decide to take their case to civil court.

Our attorneys will fight tirelessly for the settlement you deserve in order to treat your injuries and recover accident-related expenses from the negligent party responsible. 

For experienced car accident representation, contact J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today.

Book My FREE Consultation Now

Source: KSAT


Two PSJA ISD Seniors Die In Rollover Accident In Missouri

Posted on Thursday, June 4th, 2020 at 10:04 pm    

On the afternoon of May 27th, two 18-year-old male PSJA Southwest High School seniors were involved in a fatal rollover accident in Pettis County, Missouri, just days before both students were expected to graduate.

Details About The Accident

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the accident occurred just after 12 P.M. One of the students was operating a 2020 Hino truck and ran off the right side of the road but then regained balance back on to the roadway.

However, the truck skid off-road once more, this time towards the left side, and ultimately struck the ground, causing the vehicle to roll over.

What Are Rollover Accidents?

Due to their nature, rollover accidents are known to be one of the most dangerous and most fatal types of vehicle accidents there is. Regardless of the model or specifications, there is no vehicle that can prevent a rollover accident from happening. In fact, it is estimated that approximately 35% of all U.S fatal car accidents are due to rollovers.

While each rollover case is complex and unique in their own respect, approximately 95% of these accidents occur as a result of the vehicle “tripping” over an object, causing it to lose its balance and ultimately flip over.

Additionally, 85% of all rollover accident fatalities are single-vehicle crashes. The larger and narrower a vehicle may be, the more at risk they might be of rolling over due to their high center of gravity.

Factors That Lead To Rollover Accidents

Besides tripping, some of the most common reasons why rollovers happen are due to the following reasons:

  • Sharp Turns and Awkward Swerves: Also referred to as “untripped” rollovers. They tend to occur when the driver attempts to make a very sudden turn, loses control of the wheel when swerving, or any other improperly-timed maneuver.
  • Dangerous Road Conditions: Severe weather, slippery roads, and/or improper road designs can all play a crucial factor to rollover accidents if the driver doesn’t take these circumstances into consideration. Additionally, a driver may fail to recognize any road defections due to a lack of proper warning signs and/or lighting on the roadway.
  • Abnormal Driving Behavior: Distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can all lead to a traumatic car accident. In fact, 40 percent of rollovers happen due to excessive speeding.

Compassionate McAllen Car Accident Attorneys Here To Serve Victims

No one should ever hold the burden of losing a loved one due to a tragic car accident, especially if their lives were taken far too soon. While we understand that these circumstances are devastating to the surviving family members, we encourage them to find an experienced car accident lawyer that can help seek out the financial relief they need to cover costs associated with the accident.

The compassionate and caring McAllen car accident lawyers of J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys are here to assist any family affected by the loss of a loved one due to a car accident with open arms and guide them to seek legal action against the negligent party responsible.

Get the Civil Justice You Deserve. Contact J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today for a FREE case evaluation.

Book My FREE Consultation Now

Sources: KSIS, The Monitor


9-Year-Old Child Tragically Dies Following Rollover Accident

Posted on Wednesday, June 3rd, 2020 at 6:00 am    

On the early morning of Monday, May 20th, a severe rollover accident took place in  San Benito and tragically took the life of a 9-year-old girl.

Details About The Incident 

According to San Benito PD, the accident took place at the 1700 block of West Expressway 77 at approximately 1:17 a.m. When the officers arrived at the scene, they saw that a black Ford Expedition had repeatedly rolled over five times before stopping at a yard just off the frontage road. 

Five individuals were found at the scene, including a 9-year-old-girl who was pronounced dead, after being ejected from the vehicle during the crash. The remaining individuals were sent to the nearest hospital and were treated for their injuries.

Traffic Accidents Spiking Rapidly Despite Current Circumstances

According to the National Safety Council, Texas experienced a 6% increase in traffic-related fatalities throughout the first three months of 2020, as well as a total number of 241 fatalities in the month of March alone.

While there was a 37.3% decrease in car accidents in April due to the shelter-in-place ordinances the state implemented, there was still at least one or more fatalities on Texas roadways during this time period. 

In fact, there has not been a single deathless day on Texas roadways since November 7, 2000. In fact, even during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, this streak is not expected to end anytime soon. Traffic fatalities are only expected to increase within the incoming weeks as Texas reopens its economy during the second phase of the state’s plan, which is expected to continue until June 15th.

Notable Factors That Lead To Deadly Car Accidents

Distracted Driving: One of the most common factors in car accident fatalities is distracted driving. From cell phone use, eating, to heated car arguments, any distraction can prevent the driver from fully focusing on the road in front of them and can lead to a tragic accident.

Intoxicated Driving: Perhaps the most unfortunate, and yet preventable, way of losing a life would be by driving under the influence. In fact, it was reported that in 2018 that approximately 26% of all motor vehicle accident-related fatalities across Texas occurred due to alcohol-impaired driving. 

Driver Fatigue: In some cases, car accidents occur due to driver exhaustion. A lack of a proper night’s rest or driving while feeling ill can lead to the risk of causing or being involved in a catastrophic accident.

Wreckless Driving Behavior: Speeding can cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle, putting themselves and other drivers in a very dangerous situation. 

Unsafe Road Conditions: In the event of severe weather, wet pavements and slippery roads can put the driver at high risk of a car accident if he or she does not take the proper driving measurements into consideration. Additionally, roads filled with potholes, little-to-no street lighting, and lack of proper street signs can all contribute to deadly car accidents.

Compassionate Car Accident Lawyers You Need During Difficult Times

Words alone cannot express our sorrow to those that have lost a loved one because of a car accident, especially one so young. Our McAllen car accident lawyers of J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys would be proud to represent your loved one and their family to fight for the financial relief and civil justice you all need to recover from such a traumatic loss. 

Our attorneys will walk you through the legal process and evaluate what legal options you have available.

Book My FREE Consultation Now

Souces: KRGV, Valley Central


Family Files Federal Lawsuit After Loved One Dies Due to Contracting COVID-19 in the Workplace

Posted on Monday, June 1st, 2020 at 5:05 pm    

A Texas family has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Tyson Foods, Inc., after their loved one died due to COVID-19 complications. The family claims that the company failed to comply with the necessary COVID-19 related sanitation protocols and inadequately treated a workplace injury.

Details About the Lawsuit

The individual who lost their life was a female Tyson Foods employee who had suffered a knee injury while on the clock at a meatpacking facility in Amarillo.

As the company does not offer workers’ compensation to their employees, the woman was only sent to the company’s clinic where she received basic treatment and then was sent back to work despite still suffering from the injury.

After the incident, the woman started developing COVID-19 symptoms and was later admitted to the hospital where she tested positive for the coronavirus. 

The victim would ultimately pass away on May 8th due to complications from the disease.

According to the lawsuit, as a result of Tyson Foods, Inc., failing to comply with the state guidelines about personal protective gear for employees, at least 4,500 company workers have contracted COVID-19. Of this number, 18 individuals have, sadly, lost their lives. 

Wrongful Death Cases and COVID-19 

While each wrongful death case is unique in their own respective ways, and exposure to COVID-19 can be a challenge to prove, viable evidence can help substantially to support a claim.  

As explicitly stated under Section 71.001 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, a wrongful death is considered to be the “wrongful act, neglect, carelessness, unskillfulness, or default” of a party taking the innocent life of another human being.  

A vital factor in this type of wrongful death case would be the ability to successfully prove that the at-fault party showed clear indications that they acted negligently or have committed such action prior to the victim’s death. 

In order to prove negligence, the following points need to be established:

  • Duty of Care: It must be proven that the at-fault party owed the deceased victim a duty of care. For instance, in the midst of a global pandemic where a harmful virus is spreading, the employer owes a duty of care to its employees. This can include having proper sanitation measures in place alongside personal protective gear to help reduce the risk of exposure.
  • Breach of Duty: Those representing the victim must prove that the defendant failed to fulfill the duty owed to the plaintiff prior to the death. This can be established if, for example, an employer chooses to ignore safety guidelines, set up precautionary measures, or breached their duty of care in some other manner.
  • Causation: The victim’s party must prove that the failed act of duty owed was the sole reason for the person’s death. In this instance, by failing to provide a safe workplace, an employee was exposed to the virus and lost their life as a result.
  • Damages: “Quantifiable damages,” or financial damages, have been established which include but are not limited to medical bills, hospitalization, funeral and burial costs, and more.

Calling Upon Trustworthy Legal Representation

While it can be mentally, emotionally, and financially devastating to lose a loved one as a result of negligence, consulting with a compassionate and reliable wrongful death attorney can be the first step towards beginning the healing process. 

A qualified attorney can guide eligible surviving family members towards recovering necessary financial compensation for the damages they have suffered, including:

  • Loss of earning capacity (past and future)
  • Loss of household income
  • Loss of inheritance
  • Loss of companionship, friendship, care and support
  • Emotional pain and mental anguish 
  • Funeral and burial fees 

Exemplary damages may be awarded by the state of Texas, in some instances, if the death was intentional or caused by gross negligence. The state awards these damages in order to make an example out of the negligent party and distributes these damages to the beneficiaries.

If your loved one has died as a result of wrongful COVID-19 exposure caused by a negligent party, it is crucial that you file a claim as soon as possible, as the Texas Statute of Limitations only gives you a two-year window in order to do so, starting on the day the death occurred. 

To learn more about what legal options are available in regards to a COVID-19 related wrongful death, schedule a FREE Virtual case evaluation with J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today!

 

Sources: ABC13, KPRC2


Sullivan City Police Chase Leaves One Teenager Dead

Posted on Thursday, May 28th, 2020 at 5:46 pm    

On the night of Monday, May 25th, a police chase ended tragically as a 17-year-old teenage male struck his vehicle into a palm tree.

Details About The Incident

According to the local authorities, the incident began at approximately 10:31 p.m. after a Sullivan City police officer stopped the vehicle for a traffic violation near Military Road and Farm-to-Market Road 886.

As the vehicle came to a stop, numerous unidentified individuals fled the vehicle immediately, and the driver began to drive away from the officer shortly afterward.

When the driver entered La Joya territory on U.S 83, he attempted to bypass a median that was currently under construction, eventually lost control of the vehicle, and ultimately struck a palm tree. 

Following the crash, the driver was transported to the nearest hospital where he was later pronounced dead the following day.

An Overview on Single-Vehicle, Run-Off-The Road Accidents

Single vehicle, run-off-the-road crashes are known to be one of the deadliest types of car accidents. They occur when a driver, for whatever reason, loses control of their vehicle and typically crashes into a physical object, such as a large tree or pole off the roadway.

If a person involved in a single-vehicle, run-off-the-road accident were to survive, they can potentially be left with severe, debilitating injuries that can drastically change their life.

According to the latest data provided by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), in 2018:

  • There were a total of 1,289 fatalities as a result of single-vehicle, run-off-the-road car crashes.
  • Single-vehicle, run-off-the-road accidents accounted for 35.42% of all motor vehicle traffic fatalities in the state.

Additionally, a study conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reported that in 2018, 53 percent of all motor vehicle accidents across the United States were attributed to single-vehicle accidents.

Teenage drivers, on the other hand, are at a higher risk of being involved in a motor vehicle accident due to their lack of knowledge in traffic safety and driving experience. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it was concluded that in 2017:

  • 2,364 U.S teenagers between the ages of 16-19 were killed as a result of a motor vehicle accident. 
  • An average of 6 teenage deaths (aged 16-19) occurred per day on U.S roadways.
  • Male teenage drivers (aged 16-19) had a fatality rate that was twice as higher over female teenage drivers of the same age. 
  • 40% of all motor vehicle fatalities involving teenage drivers and passengers (aged 13-19) occurred during nighttime, typically between 9 p.m. – 6 a.m.

J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys: McAllen Car Accident Attorneys You Can Depend On

It is never easy to handle what comes after losing a loved one from a car accident, especially if they were taken far too soon. While you may feel a sense of hopelessness during this difficult and uncertain time, just know that you are not alone, and there is help you can depend on.

The McAllen car accident attorneys of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys are ready to help you seek proper financial relief and civil justice for your lost loved one who perished as a result of a single-vehicle accident caused by the negligence of the other party.

Don’t let justice go unanswered! Contact J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today to get the experienced personal injury representation you need.

 

Book My FREE Consultation Now

Sources: Valley Central, KRGV


How the Current State of COVID-19 Can Lead to Truck Accidents

Posted on Monday, May 25th, 2020 at 9:00 am    

With the world slowly recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, many essential establishments including grocery stores, medical clinics, and hospitals have been relying heavily on the trucking industry in order to have their respective goods delivered as soon as possible. 

According to a report by Business Insider, the United States trucking industry is responsible for 70% of all goods shipped across the country. Hypothetically speaking, if there was a long stall within the trucking industry, most grocery stores would run out of food in just three days!

This means, now more than ever, truck drivers have to carry more weight on their shoulders and are under extreme pressure to get their jobs done, which also means the odds of an atrocious truck accident are even higher than before. 

COVID-19’s Impact on the Trucking Industry

I. Emergency Declaration

As a direct result of the coronavirus, on April 8th, the U.S. Department of Transportation issued an emergency relief declaration, which, in short, states that truck drivers are able to work and drive longer hours to deliver essential needs such as masks, hand sanitizers, and gloves to hospitals and stores. 

The declaration also specifically notes who exactly is able to drive these extended hours and what qualifies as essential needs versus day-to-day commercial cargo. 

Finally, in order to ensure a driver’s mental stability, essential truck drivers that need immediate rest must receive at least 10 hours off duty from their employers.

II. Effect on Truck Drivers

While these adjustments are meant to help our communities, what it also means is that truck drivers are at a higher risk of getting involved in a deadly accident, like a rollover as a result of the restlessness they might experience, for example.

To make matters even worse, truck drivers may not have the proper resources to stay mentally healthy when doing long drives, as some local and state ordinances may have shut down the option to dine inside restaurants or take a breather at rest stops.

Most Notable Causes for Truck Accidents

Truck accidents can be some of the deadliest types of motor vehicle accidents. Some of the most common causes of serious truck accidents also include:

  • Driver fatigue due to a lack of proper rest
  • Distracted driving (e.g. cell phone use while operating the vehicle)
  • Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Reckless driving
  • Excessive speeding
  • Unsafe road conditions due to severe weather or faulty road designs
  • Lack of inspection or proper maintenance from the employer

Shocking Truck Driving Trends

According to the Fatality Analysis Reporting System, it was reported that in 2018:

  • A total of 4,136 people died in car accidents involving large trucks.
  • Large truck accidents accounted for 11% of all motor vehicle fatalities.
  • 52% of large truck accidents occurred on major roadways, 33% on interstates and freeways, and 16% on minor roadways.

Additionally, in a separate study conducted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, it was reported that in 2017:

  • There were 841 large truck occupant fatalities.
  • Out of 4,600 truck drivers involved in fatal crashes, 5% (252) tested positive for at least one illegal substance.
  • 32% of large truck driver fatalities had at least one driver-related factor play a role leading up to the accident, with speeding being the leading factor and driver fatigue being the second most common factor.

McAllen Truck Accident Lawyers You Can Count On!

Global pandemic or not, when you are involved in a horrific truck accident, it is crucial to seek legal representation if you wish to receive the financial compensation necessary to cover the costs of treating your injuries and trauma. 

The dedicated and compassionate McAllen truck accident lawyers of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys will stop at nothing to seek justice against the negligent driver and trucking company responsible for your pain and suffering.

Our attorneys will be able to assist our clients through virtual consultations and gather the most in-depth research possible to determine what legal options are available.

 

Contact J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today at (956) 630-6700 for a FREE no-obligation virtual case evaluation!


Crash Involving a State Trooper Leads to 2 Hospitalized in Edinburg

Posted on Tuesday, May 19th, 2020 at 2:44 pm    

On the morning of May 14, a car accident involving two vehicles resulted in the hospitalization of both drivers, one of whom was a state trooper.

Details About the Accident

According to a spokesman for the Texas Department of Public Safety, the accident occurred at the intersection of Wisconsin and I-Road in Edinburg. Both drivers were immediately transported to the nearest emergency room with minor injuries. While specific details are limited at this time, the DPS is currently investigating how exactly the accident occurred.

A Brief Overview of Texas Car Accident Statistics Involving Law Enforcement

According to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), from January 1 to May 15:
Out of a total of 43 fatalities among law enforcement officers, 20 of them are traffic-related.

  • In that same time period from January 1 to May 15, 2019, out of the 57 total fatalities around the nation, 18 were traffic-related, signifying, so far, an 11% increase.
  • The State of Texas suffered 9 fatalities among law enforcement officers in 2019, ranking it as the no. 1 state in law enforcement deaths.

Types of Damages Awarded to Car Accident Victims

Due to the size and speed at which vehicles can travel, car accidents are often seriously damaging for those involved. From physical to mental, the injuries sustained in a car accident can be severe. Thankfully, if you’ve been in an accident, with the help of a dedicated attorney you can have a fair fight for the financial relief you need.

In car accident civil suit proceedings, you may be able to win damages to cover to following losses:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Loss earning capacity
  • Loss of quality of life
  • Physical disfigurement
  • Loss of consortium and companionship
  • Wrongful death

J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys: McAllen Car Accident Attorneys by Your Side

Those who have been involved in serious accidents know that these situations can be overwhelming, leaving car accident survivors feeling like they have to face the world alone. However, there is help to be had, even in the most uncertain of times.

If you have been involved in a car accident, the McAllen car accident attorneys of J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys would be proud to represent you in your fight for the financial relief you deserve.

Injured in a car accident? Let J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys Represent You.

Book My FREE Consultation Now

Source: Valley Central

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