Tanker truck wrecks are among the most dangerous types of auto accidents out there. These vehicles are not only heavy, but their contents are often hazardous, significantly increasing the risk of secondary injuries like chemical burns or fires. They can also make the roadways more hazardous for other drivers, increasing the risk of multi-car accidents.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a tanker truck accident in Houston, reach out to one of our lawyers for help. An experienced truck crash attorney could help you navigate the claims process and pursue your rightful compensation.

What Is a Tanker Truck?

A tanker truck is any truck designed to transport bulk liquids, gases, or powders. Instead of transporting smaller containers of product, the product is in the tank on the vehicle. These trucks come in various sizes, ranging from small ones that may transport these products locally to large semi-trucks with tankers.

People use tankers to transport everything from potable water to hazardous materials. Some products they carry include:

  • Oil
  • Milk
  • Wine
  • Juice
  • Water
  • Diesel
  • Gasoline
  • Molasses
  • Chemicals
  • Natural gas
  • Waste products

The risk associated with a tanker truck collision largely depends on the substances transported throughout Houston. While the weight and force of the truck in the accident are essentially the same regardless of the type of product involved, the associated risks can vary greatly. Potable water is probably the least dangerous item to transport, while biohazard waste, chemicals, and flammable products increase the risk of secondary injuries in these crashes.

Depending on what the tanker carries, the trucker may need special endorsements on their license to carry hazardous or flammable materials. If a trucker lacks those endorsements and still transports those materials, then they could be held liable for negligence, as could their employers.

The Role of Trucker Negligence in Tanker Wrecks

Trucker negligence plays a significant role in many Houston tanker crashes. Their vehicles are heavy, so they take longer to stop and are more difficult to maneuver. Even a moment’s inattention can lead to unavoidable accidents. Some ways in which truckers may demonstrate negligence include:

Truckers also have strict federal and state standards regarding driver behavior. They focus on preventing drowsy driving, which is one of the leading causes of accidents. However, the system is self-reported—it is easy for a trucker to fudge details and exceed the limits on how long they can be behind the wheel. Disobeying those laws can be proof of negligence.

Employer Responsibility in Tanker Truck Crashes

In addition to driver responsibility, third parties may be responsible for tanker truck accidents. An employer must ensure that their drivers have the correct qualifications for the items that they haul. A trucking company that uses an unqualified trucker to haul hazardous materials may be negligent.

Likewise, trucking companies must ensure that their drivers are safe. If the driver has a history of speeding, driving under the influence, or violating safety regulations, the employer should not continue to use them.

Employers may also own the trucks and be responsible for their maintenance. If a maintenance issue contributed to the accident, then the trucker’s employer may share liability for the claim. An attorney in Houston could investigate whether failing brakes or other mechanical parts played a role in the tanker accident.

Consult a Houston Attorney About Truck Collisions Involving Tankers

Tanker truck crashes have the potential to damage property and hurt people. Dealing with the aftermath can be complex, as the driver may share responsibility with third parties. You do not, and should not, have to deal with insurance negotiations or lawsuits alone. One of our attorneys could help you seek financial compensation for your injuries. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about remedies after tanker truck accidents in Houston.