HARROLD, TX (03/20/2016) — An 18-wheeler crash on Sunday night claimed the life of Travis Lee Higginbotham.
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) identified 40-year-old Travis Lee Higginbotham as the victim of a car vs. semi-truck accident that occurred at the intersection of Highway 287 and the Harrold Truck Stop (Southwest Convenience Stores) in Harrold, Texas.
Trooper Dan Buesing reported that at around 8:45 p.m., the driver of a semi-trailer—carrying a load of bees—was facing southbound on Highway 287 and turning left (across the northbound lanes) into the truck stop when Higginbotham’s 2012 Chevrolet pickup truck broadsided the 18-wheeler, wedging under the semi-trailer.
Higginbotham was pronounced dead at the scene.
“That area is pretty dangerous just because you’re mixing highway speeds with slower traffic, and traffic crossing the highway to get to the truck stop,” Beusing said.
No charges have been filed, however, this accident remains under investigation.
Commentary
Google StreetView images of the intersection in question indicate that the area is free of obstructions that may have limited visibility for either driver. That being said, the driver of the 18-wheeler does not have the right-of-way when taking a left and crossing the highway. It was the truck driver’s responsibility to ensure the area was clear before starting the turn.
While no charges have been filed for now, this trucker may be held liable for their negligent behavior, both criminally and civilly.
