Courtesy of WFAA News
Truck drivers are expected to follow carefully designed routes when transporting hazardous material. But, as WFAA reports, they don’t always do so.
Last week, Dallas sheriffs and deputies executed a four hour sting where they caught 50 semi-trucks transporting hazardous cargo through downtown. One of the trucks contained explosives.
One driver commented that he never saw a sign that indicated downtown Dallas as a “hazard-free cargo” area. Unfortunately, that doesn’t fly with law enforcement. In fact, the Texas Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers Handbook specifically says “It is your job as driver to find out if you need permits or must use special routes.” This information is readily available online. Here’s a map that shows routes where hazardous materials are forbidden in downtown. Note the section marked in red on I-30. That particular stretch of highway has been called “the canyon,” and is particularly dangerous for Dallas commuters. The danger is magnified when a vehicle containing corrosives is present.
Here’s to hoping the Sheriff’s department’s recent enforcement increase keeps hazardous material out of downtown. Because if a trucking company ignores the regulations and injures a Dallas driver as a result of its negligence, the injured party’s truck accident lawyer will pursue full compensation – which could cost the company millions.
Drive safely, Dallas.
