Rio Grande City Man Dead after Cotulla Trucking Accident
According to the Loredo Morning Times, authorities have confirmed that Rio Grande City resident Saim Villalobos, 24, was killed in a trucking accident in La Salle County last Thursday following a collision with a tractor-trailer.
About the Cotulla Trucking Accident
While details are still scarce, the Texas Department of Public Safety has stated that Villalobos was pronounced dead at the scene following a trucking accident on Highway 97 near Cotulla.
The accident is still under investigation and police have only stated that the accident occurred when Villabolos’ 2011 Chevrolet Camaro collided with an 18-wheeler.
Cotulla, which lies at the heart of the Eagle Ford Shale has seen a spike in trucking and industrial activity following a recent oil boom in the area.
Unfortunately, along with the job growth, accidents involving tractor-trailers and commercial vehicles have been on the rise as well.
Trucking Accident Statistics
- According to a 2013 report by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 3,341 people were killed in accidents involving large trucks in 2011 – up from 3,271 in 2010 and 2,983 in 2009.
- The number of people injured in large truck crashes has also been on the rise with 88,000 injuries reported in 2011, compared to 80,000 in 2010 and 74,000 in 2009.
- Common causes of trucking accidents include:
- Failure to adhere to traffic laws
- Negligence
- Aggressive driving
- Improper maintenance
- Distracted driving
- Driving while intoxicated
- Driver fatigue
