Tractor Trailer Hazmat Crashes Cause Massive Delays in Houston
According to a report from ABC 13 Houston, there were major traffic delays across the region after two separate hazmat truck accidents were reported in quick succession. One hazmat vehicle crash happened on I-45 North in the northbound lanes, shortly before Patton Street. The other incident occurred on the same highway, near Crosstimbers Street. The Harris County Sheriff’s Department reports that it took several hours for traffic to resume due to hazardous material being spilled. Here, our Houston truck accident attorney discusses the high risks of hazmat vehicle crashes.
Hazmat Truck are Dangerous (Serious Risk to Public Safety)
Hazardous materials (hazmat) trucks carry substances that pose a serious risk to health, safety, and the environment. In Southeast Texas, which of course is home to a sprawling energy industry, hazmat shipments are frequent. Unfortunately, that comes with an increased risk of catastrophic accidents. When crashes involve flammable liquids, toxic gases, corrosives, or explosives, the consequences can far exceed those of typical motor vehicle accidents. Fires, chemical burns, and long-term environmental contamination are real dangers. Even a minor collision can trigger a release that threatens entire communities.
A Note On Chemical Exposure Risk: Hazmat truck accidents often result in the release of dangerous chemicals. When a tank ruptures or a valve fails, the toxic vapors or liquids can spread quickly. Inhaling or coming into contact with certain materials can lead to serious injuries, including respiratory distress, chemical burns, and even severe neurological damage.
Hazmat Trucks are Subject to More Comprehensive Insurance Requirements
Hazmat truck operators are subject to special insurance requirements under both federal and Texas law. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates higher minimum liability insurance limits for vehicles transporting certain types of hazardous materials. It requires:
- $1 million minimum coverage for most hazardous materials that do not pose an extreme risk; and
- $5 million minimum coverage for highly dangerous substances such as explosives, compressed gas, radioactive materials, or poison gases.
Victims Need Full and Fair Financial Compensation After a Hazmat Truck Crash
In Texas, truck accident victims have the right to seek compensation for the full extent of their damages, including non-economic losses. Following a crash with a hazmat truck, it is crucial that victims and families are able to secure the maximum available financial relief. Along with other types of damages, you may recover for:
- Vehicle repairs;
- Ambulance costs;
- Emergency room care;
- Hospital bills;
- Other health costs;
- Rehabilitative care;
- Loss of wages;
- Reduced earning power;
- Pain and suffering;
- Mental anguish;
- Long-term disability; and
- Wrongful death.
Contact Our Texas Truck Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Review
At Henrietta Ezeoke Law Firm, our Houston truck accident lawyers handle the full range of serious crashes, including those involving hazmat vehicles. If you or your loved one was hurt in a bad truck accident, we are more than ready to help. Give us a call now or contact us online for a free, no obligation initial consultation. With offices in Missouri City and Houston, we handle truck accident cases throughout the wider region in Southeast Texas.
Source:
abc13.com/post/several-lanes-closed-45-north-nb-before-patton-street-due-heavy-truck-crash-hazmat-spill/16933630/
