Tanker Trucks and Mississippi Accidents
Tanker trucks are large vehicles designed to transport hazardous materials, including flammable liquids, gasses, and chemicals. Accidents involving these types of trucks can be particularly dangerous due to the potential for fires, explosions, and toxic spills.
In Mississippi, there have been several high-profile accidents involving tanker trucks in recent years. One of the most notable incidents occurred in 2017 when a tanker truck carrying gasoline overturned on Highway 61 in Tunica County, causing a massive fire that burned for hours and resulted in the closure of the highway.
In 2018, a tanker truck carrying liquid nitrogen overturned on I-10 in Biloxi, causing a massive explosion that killed two people and injured several others. The accident resulted in the closure of the interstate for several hours.
In addition to these high-profile incidents, there have been numerous other accidents involving tankers in Mississippi over the years, many of which have resulted in serious injuries and fatalities.
Tankers Are Regulated by the State Department of Transportation
To help prevent accidents involving tanker trucks, the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) has implemented a number of safety measures, including restrictions on the transportation of hazardous materials on certain roads and bridges, increased training requirements for tanker truck drivers, and regular safety inspections of their vehicles.
What Type of Trucker Negligence Causes a Tanker Truck Collision
Tanker truck collisions can result from a variety of factors, including both driver and equipment-related issues. Some common types of trucker negligence that can cause tanker truck collisions include:
- Driver fatigue: Tanker truck drivers often work long hours and may be more susceptible to driver fatigue, which can impair their ability to operate the vehicle safely.
- Speeding: Tanker trucks can be difficult to handle at high speeds, especially when carrying hazardous materials. Speeding can increase the risk of a rollover or other accident.
- Improper maintenance: Tankers require regular maintenance to ensure that they are in good working condition. Failure to properly maintain the vehicle can increase the risk of equipment problems, such as brake failure or tire blowouts.
- Improper loading: Container trucks must be loaded in a specific way to ensure that the load is stable and balanced. Failure to properly load the vehicle can increase the risk of a rollover or other accident.
- Distracted driving: Tanker truck drivers may be distracted by cell phones, radios, or other devices, which can impair their ability to focus on the road and operate the vehicle safely.
- Driving under the influence: Tanker truck drivers who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol can pose a serious danger to themselves and others on the road.
Help in Recovering Compensation Following a Crash With a Negligent Tanker Truck Driver
If you were involved in an accident involving a tanker truck driver who was acting negligently, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your damages, losses, and injuries. An experienced attorney can help you determine the full extent of your legal rights and options for recovering damages.
Legal Assistance After a Tanker Truck Accident Injury
Your lawyer can review the evidence from your accident and use it to build a strong case for negligence against the tanker truck driver. Your attorney will be able to assess the circumstances of your accident and determine the amount of compensation you may be entitled to.
In addition, an experienced lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you are fairly compensated for your losses. They can also help guide you through the claims process and represent you in court, if necessary.
The Diaz Law Firm
The Diaz Law Firm Firm can offer you free advice if you were injured by a negligent trucker or their employer. Call us to find out whether you can file a claim for your injuries and what options are available to recover damages. Contact us at (601) 607-3456, or you can reach us online. Remember, you don’t pay us unless you win.