Changing lanes on busy roads is often challenging, and nearby semi-trucks or short haulers en route often make it more difficult. A sideswipe or rear-end collision involving a commercial vehicle can lead to a pile-up or even become lethal.

Truck accidents caused by unsafe lane changes in Houston can be complicated. If you are struggling to recover from such a crash, a lawyer can help you. However, you should choose a truck accident attorney who understands both the dynamics involved and the law.

How Lane Change Accidents Happen

According to one study of unsafe driving behaviors, collisions involving improper lane changes between a car and a semi-truck in Houston are more likely to be fatal than accidents between two cars. A driver is not operating their truck safely when they:

  • Forget to check their mirrors
  • Misjudge the speed of traffic
  • Attempt to merge without enough room
  • Drift into another lane due to distraction or disorientation

Truck drivers are professionals operating multi-ton vehicles. They carry a heavier responsibility than smaller vehicles, motorcycles, and pedestrians.

Obstacles to Safe Driving for Commercial Vehicles

As freight transport is a high-pressure industry, commercial drivers are often under considerable stress. This makes commercial trucks in Houston vulnerable to crashes caused by a dangerous lane change, as drivers may be:

  • Fatigued
  • Distracted due to work calls or paperwork while driving
  • Pressured financially or by corporate demands to move faster
  • Traveling too fast in poor conditions or unfamiliar areas
  • Impaired as a side effect of medications or drinks meant to keep them alert

Trucks, particularly 18-wheelers, have significant blind spots. Many truckers expect other drivers to understand this, and some post a sticker warning cars to stay in view of their mirrors. Regardless, truckers are still responsible for their driving and how they change lanes.

What Should You Expect After a Truck Accident?

If you have been in a collision with a commercial vehicle in Houston following an improper change of lane, you may have more difficulty seeking compensation than if the collision involved a private person. Every truckload involves the work or ownership of multiple businesses, which can complicate any accident claim.

Companies in the cargo business often hire truck drivers who work as independent contractors. After an accident involving one of these drivers, the company may attempt to use this status to avoid its own responsibility. Fighting this requires an experienced attorney who knows how to hold businesses accountable.

Truck accident sites pose special challenges for investigation, but the truck’s electronic data recorder should show the driver’s exact movements and the timing of the crash. Attorneys can help preserve evidence and protect their clients’ right to recover damages.

Contact Our Attorneys in Houston To Discuss Your Semi-Truck Crash Resulting From a Dangerous Lane Change

Claims related to truck accidents caused by unsafe lane changes in Houston are likely to be complicated. Handling the case alone can be more complex than dealing with other auto accident claims.

At Fleming Law Accident & Injury Attorneys, we are available to discuss your claim 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Contact us today to make an appointment and begin your recovery process.