On November 14, 2021 at 4:06 a.m.,a stranded driver was killed on State Highway 195 in Killeen, TX.

More About the Killeen Car Accident

Authorities believe the driver of an indisposed vehicle stepped out of the car and onto the roadway. Another car going northbound struck the stranded driver, causing him fatal injury immediately. The car proceeded to cross over the medium into the southbound lanes.

Police found the gentleman’s body in the center median area.

The driver of the car which collided with the deceased is being treated with non-life threatening injuries at Baylor Scott and White Hospital in Temple, Texas.

What to Do If Your Vehicle Breaks Down on the Highway

Cars breaking down on a highway can be both frustrating and frightening. During the day, the highways are busy with fast moving vehicles who are not at the mercy to stop at their will. At night, there can still be a lot of traffic, on top of it being dark and harder to see.

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) offers these tips on what to do if your car shuts down on the highway:

1. Don’t panic. Although it is scary, remaining calm helps make better decisions.
2. Call for assistance from authorities to help get you and your car out of danger.
3. Park your car as far from traffic as possible, and only if you can do so safely.
4. If you need to exit the vehicle, exit from the passenger side.
5. Make the vehicle visible, especially at night, by leaving lights on and turning on flashers or emergency lights.

Austin Car Attorneys Are here for Your Safety

With years of experience in representing auto accident victims, our Austin Car Attorneys at Ramos James Law, PLLC have what it takes to help them get the compensation they need. We know that the aftermath of an accident is difficult to process, but know that you aren’t alone.

If you have suffered injuries because of a car accident, contact Ramos James Law, PLLC today.

Schedule a Free Consultation Now

Source: KWTX

On Wednesday, July 28th, an Austin police officer was involved in a major accident with an 18-wheeler.

Details About the Accident

According to reports, the accident occurred in the 7800 block of FM 969 near Decker Lane. The police officer was on their way to respond to an urgent call when they were struck by an 18-wheeler.

The officer was transported to a local hospital after being pinned under the tractor and suffering catastrophic injuries.

Texas Department of Transportation data shows that the one-mile stretch of FM 969 between Johnny Morris Rd. and Decker has seen dozens of crashes since late 2018. This stretch of road has also been slated for improvements and seen a reduction in speed.

How to Drive Safely Around 18-Wheelers

Every year, more than 4,000 accidents involving large trucks or buses occur. While driving around or alongside 18-wheelers can be quite intimidating, there are steps and measures you can practice to enhance your safety.

1.Never Text and Drive

Driving while texting is extremely dangerous and should never be done when behind the wheel. When traveling on the highway, a five-second glance at your phone is like traveling the length of multiple football fields blindly. If an 18-wheeler suddenly stops in front of you, there is a great likelihood that you crash into it.

2.Do Not Cut Off Semi Trucks

You do not want to be the way of a semi-truck due to their size and weight. Because of their size and momentum, it can take an 18-wheeler a considerable amount of time to come to a complete stop. For example, it can take an 18-wheeler driving at 60 mph about the length of three football fields for them to come to a complete stop.

3.Pass Trucks Quickly

While driving alongside an 18-wheeler, you need to give them their respective space. When coming up on an 18-wheeler, it is a best practice to pass them up as quickly as possible at a safe rate of speed.

By doing so, you will also be getting out of their blind spots. Lingering in a blind spot can be dangerous and can easily lead to an accident.

4.Give Trucks Room to Turn

18-wheelers are large, long, and need space to maneuver.

To avoid getting caught in their turning space, give them adequate room to make their turn. For instance, at an intersection, it is best to stop several feet behind the stop lines so that they have adequate room to make their turn – especially if they are making a right-hand turn.

5.Give Trucks the Right of Way

If you are in a situation deliberating who has the right of way, allow the 18-wheeler to go first. This allows the truck to get out of the way, allowing you to continue on the road safely.

Other safety practices include:

• Keep an eye on the lights of the semi-truck to determine whether it is stopping, turning, or moving in some other manner
• Watch for drifting and lane straddling
• Be a responsible driver yourself and avoid negligent behavior when behind the wheel

Austin Truck Accident Attorneys Here for You

Driving alongside 18-wheelers can be intimidating for even experienced drivers, but with the right driving practices, you can best protect yourself and others. However, accidents do happen.

If you or a loved one are ever involved in an 18-wheeler accident, the Austin truck accident attorneys at Ramos James Law, PLLC, are ready to fight for the justice you deserve.

Request a FREE Consultation

Source:CBS Austin