An 18-year-old man was killed in a recent motorcycle accident after striking an object on the roadway. He was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. There is no information regarding the type of debris he struck or about who may have dropped it on the roadway.
According to a report released by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety in 2007, roadway debris causes approximately 25,000 traffic accidents and nearly 100 traffic accident-related deaths nationwide.
Under Texas law, it is illegal to dump any type of debris on the roadway. For allowing “loose material” to spill or blow out of a vehicle, the Texas Transportation Code provides a fine of up to $200 and $500 for subsequent violations.
For pickups and other vehicles not being used commercially, the transportation code specifies that loose material must be secured, and in some cases covered. The code also requires a driver to retrieve objects spilled from his or her vehicle onto the roadway.
In such cases, the individual or entity that dropped the debris on the roadway can be held civilly liable for the damages and losses sustained by others. Moreover, families of deceased auto accident victims can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for damages including medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, as well as pain and suffering.
The experienced Dallas motorcycle accident lawyers at the Law Office of Crowe Arnold and Majors can help you obtain fair compensation for your losses. If you have lost a loved one in an accident, please contact us for a free and comprehensive consultation.
