18-wheeler Accidents

Man Sentenced to 110 Years After Trucking Accident Kills Four

Published on: January 2, 2022 | by Carabin Shaw

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December 17, 2021 – A Colorado truck driver was sentenced to 110 years in prison for a crash that occurred on I-10 in April of 2019 which left 4 people dead. 26-year-old Texas native Rogel Aguilera Mederos pleaded for leniency and the Colorado judge refused, claiming the law prevent such an action. However, as of today, more than three million have signed a petition asking for clemency or commutation for time served from Colorado Governor Jared Polis.

In April 2019, Rogel was driving down I-10 at 85mph during rush hour when his brakes failed, and he collided with dozens of stopped vehicles. The collision sparked a massive fire that shut I-10 down for roughly 24 hours, killing 4 people trapped by the flames. Among the victims was a 24-year-old named Miguel Angel. Rogel had previously failed to utilize one of the state’s runway truck ramps, which the prosecution focused heavily on during his trial. When asked why, he said that he was unaware that his brakes were out, and that he made efforts to prevent the accident.

Auto Accidents happen every day, but when an 18-wheeler is involved the injuries and damage that occurs can be so much greater. It is important to be aware of your rights if you or someone you love is affected by an auto accident involving an 18-wheeler.

Fatal 18-Wheeler Accident Claims One Life in Smith County, Texas

Published on: September 14, 2021 | by Carabin Shaw

Recently, one person was killed in a Texas truck accident in Smith County. While details about the accident are still sparse, according to a local news report, the accident occurred on FM 346. The driver of the truck survived the accident with serious injuries. However, an unidentified person was pronounced dead at the scene. The accident is still under investigation, and there is no indication whether criminal charges will be pursued.

Motor vehicle collisions are one of the leading causes of preventable injury in Texas. In fact, according to the most recent data from the Texas Department of Transportation, there are more than 15,800 people injured and another 3,600 killed in Texas car accidents each year. Truck accidents are responsible for a significant portion of these collisions.

Although Texas does not have the highest population of all U.S. states, it does see the highest number of trucking accidents. In part, this is because of the large number of interstate highways spanning the state. However, there also seems to be a certain disregard of the state’s traffic laws and regulations among many Texas truck drivers. For example, the majority of Texas truck accidents are the result of entirely preventable driving behavior, such as distracted driving, drunk driving, and aggressive driving. There is also a portion of truck accidents caused by vehicle and equipment defects.

Two Killed in Texas Truck Accident in West Texas

Published on: June 17, 2021 | by Carabin Shaw

Earlier this month, on the tail end of Memorial Day weekend, two people were killed in a truck accident occurring on Interstate 10 near Van Horn. Heavy rain was a contributing factor in the fatal collision.

According to a local news report, a Honda SUV was traveling eastbound on I-10. Due to the heavy rainfall, the driver of the Honda lost control. The vehicle spun out, coming to a stop while blocking several lanes of traffic. Moments later, the driver of an 18-wheeler approached. The truck driver did not stop in time and collided with the SUV. The truck then traveled onto the shoulder, where it flipped over. Another approaching semi-truck then crashed into a rolled-over 18-wheeler.

The passenger in the SUV and the driver of the 18-wheeler both died as a result of injuries they sustained in the accident. The driver of the SUV and the driver of the semi-truck were injured, although they are expected to recover.