Dallas interstate bridge was damaged during truck accident

Dallas, TX – There was a report from CBS News for the Dallas area that a tractor trailer accident resulted in delays and damage to a bridge on Interstate Highway 30 [1].

Tractor trailer crash causes shutdowns as officials fear damage from falling concrete

A section of westbound Interstate 30 (I-30) in downtown Dallas has been closed due to bridge damage, following an incident involving a tractor-trailer. According to the Dallas County Sheriff’s Office, the tractor-trailer lost control and collided with the concrete guard rail on the right side of the I-35E northbound overpass near Reunion Boulevard. This collision has caused significant damage to the wall and concrete, posing a risk of debris falling onto the main lanes of westbound I-30 below.

As a safety measure, only one lane is open for traffic on westbound I-30 at Ervay Street. Additionally, traffic is being redirected onto Interstate 35E north or south from westbound I-30, further impacting the flow of vehicles in the area.

This incident has resulted in significant disruptions to the local traffic flow, creating congestion and delays for commuters in downtown Dallas. The closure of a major section of I-30 has forced drivers to seek alternative routes, adding to the already congested roadways in the area.

Authorities are actively working to assess the extent of the damage and formulate a plan for necessary repairs to the I-35E northbound overpass. It is essential to ensure the structural integrity of the bridge before reopening the affected portion of westbound I-30.

As of the most recent update, the situation remains ongoing, and commuters are advised to stay informed about traffic conditions in the area through official channels. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining infrastructure and taking prompt action to address damage or safety concerns to ensure the well-being of commuters and the efficiency of transportation networks in urban areas.

Is a truck driver or trucking company in Texas required to have insurance to pay for property damage?

Yes, both truck drivers and trucking companies in Texas are required to have insurance to cover property damage. This requirement is in place to protect the interests of the public, ensure the financial responsibility of those involved in commercial transportation, and provide compensation in case of truck accidents that result in property damage.

In Texas, commercial motor vehicles, including trucks, are subject to specific insurance requirements set forth by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations mandate that both trucking companies and individual truck drivers carry certain types and minimum amounts of insurance coverage. Here’s a breakdown of the key insurance requirements:

Liability Insurance: Liability insurance is the primary coverage required for both trucking companies and truck drivers in Texas. It is designed to cover property damage and bodily injury claims that may arise as a result of accidents involving commercial motor vehicles. The minimum liability insurance limits can vary based on factors like the type of cargo being transported and the vehicle’s weight. For example, as of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the minimum liability insurance for trucks over 10,000 pounds was $750,000.
Cargo Insurance: Depending on the nature of the cargo being transported, trucking companies may also be required to carry cargo insurance. This coverage is meant to compensate for damage or loss of the goods being transported. The specific insurance requirements for cargo can vary widely based on the type of cargo and its value.
Property Damage Insurance: Property damage insurance is included as part of the liability insurance coverage. It covers damage to other people’s property, including vehicles and structures, that may occur as a result of an accident involving the truck. This insurance is crucial for covering the costs of repairing or replacing damaged property.
Collision and Comprehensive Coverage: While not explicitly required by the state, many trucking companies and owner-operators also opt for collision and comprehensive coverage to protect their own vehicles in case of accidents, theft, or damage not related to a collision.

It’s important to note that failure to maintain the required insurance coverage can result in severe consequences, including fines, license suspensions, and even the revocation of operating authority for trucking companies. Additionally, insurance companies that provide coverage for commercial vehicles must be authorized to do business in Texas.

In summary, both truck drivers and trucking companies operating in Texas are obligated to have insurance that covers property damage resulting from accidents. These insurance requirements are in place to ensure that those involved in commercial transportation can fulfill their financial responsibilities in the event of property damage or other liabilities. Complying with these insurance regulations is not only a legal obligation but also a crucial step in promoting road safety and protecting the interests of all road users.

Truck accident attorneys in Dallas

Anyone who needs an attorney referral can contact USAttorneys.com at 800-672-3103. There are attorneys throughout the nation available to answer questions.

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