Tractor-Trailer Causes Fatal Accident in Marshall, Texas
Tractor-Trailer Causes Fatal Accident in Marshall, Texas by Texas 18-Wheeler and Trucking Accident Attorney Justin A. Hill
Every year, Texas experiences a large number of dangerous, and potentially deadly, accidents involving large combination tractor-trailers. The reasons that combination vehicles continue to be such a danger are many. From long hours and fatigued drivers to bad training and poorly maintained vehicles, tractor trailers continue to be a serious danger to all drivers. A tractor-trailer accident, reported today in the Marshall News Messenger has claimed the life of a Texas woman. The Messenger reports:
A 42-year-old Elysian Fields woman was killed and a man was injured in a two-vehicle accident about 7 p.m. Monday on Farm-to-Market Road 31, according to a report from the Texas Department of Public Safety. Jana Freese, 42, 4324 FM 31 North, was pronounced dead at the scene by Justice of the Peace Hugh Taylor. Funeral arrangements for Ms. Freese are pending with Downs Funeral Home. The accident occurred about half a mile from Farm-to-Market Road 2625 in a section of FM 31 where the speed limit is 60 mph. The road conditions were wet and raining, according to the report. Ms. Freese was traveling south on FM 31 in a 2008 Kia when an International tractor trailer, traveling north, crossed into the southbound lane striking her on its front left, according to the report. Thomas Murphy, 54, Shreveport, La., driver of the tractor suffered minor injuries to his leg in the accident and was taken to a local hospital, according to the report. Both were wearing their seat belts. The accident was investigated by Texas Department of Safety Trooper James Hargett.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, truck-related highway fatalities totaled 4,229 in 2008. If someone you know was injured or killed as the result of an 18-wheeler accident, big rig accident or tractor-trailer accident, encourage them to immediately contact a competent attorney for advice. It is extremely important to do this quickly to ensure that evidence is preserved, statements are taken, and the rights of all claimants are protected.
