The consequences tend to be worse whenever a big truck is involved.
CHARLOTTE, NC (PRWEB) February 13, 2014
A crash involving a chemical-loaded tractor trailer alarmed residents and stopped traffic. Accident lawyer Herb Auger of Auger Law says that even though the chemicals turned out not to be deadly, they highlight the increased risk of accidents involving tanker trucks.
The crash involved a tanker hauling ethanol according to WCNC News (retrieved 01.14.2014). When the semi crashed, first responders detected a leak of the substance and HazMat was notified.
“The consequences tend to be worse whenever a big truck is involved,” said Auger, whose firm helps accident victims who have been injured. “A tractor trailer is quite possible the most dangerous vehicle on the road. But once there are chemicals on board, it can affect an entire community.”
Ethanol is an industrial version of alcohol which can be used as a solvent or for fuel. While not the most toxic chemical on the roads, Auger says it can cause substantial harm in large enough quantities.
“This is something you don't want in your groundwater,” he said.
Fire Department officials said the leak was minor. Motorists were told to use a different route to avoid the accident, but no evacuation was ordered for the area.
Nonetheless Auger says it drives home the very real risk of a chemical truck accident.
“We work with a lot of accident victims and we've seen all kinds of truck crashes. Cargo scattered on the road, live cattle wandering off... but it is industrial chemicals that cause the most harm.”
Auger said motorists should give all semi-trucks a wide berth.
“Treat them with respect and give them lots of room, and you're likely adding a few years on your life.”
About Herb Auger:
Herbert W. Auger, Esquire is a Charlotte car accident lawyer with over 20 years of experience helping victims of auto accidents receive fair compensation. A founder of Auger & Auger law firm, Herb Auger believes in an aggressive results-oriented approach that maximizes the awards his clients receive. He can be contacted at:
Auger & Auger
717 S. Torrence Street
Suite 101
Charlotte, NC 28204
704-323-5427
http://www.augerlaw.com