Blog Topic

The Hidden Dangers of Truck Stops
Posted by: Christopher Hoffmann
August 27, 2008

While many motorists understand the hazards of driving near a tractor-trailer on the highway, they may not know that walking across a truck stop can also be dangerous.

On Aug. 23, truck driver George Taylor of Webb City, Mo., was walking near the diesel pumps at a truck stop in Sioux Falls, S.D. at about 10:30 p.m., when he was struck and killed in a hit-and-run accident involving a semi.

Journalist Matthew Gruchow of the Argus-Leader notes in "Leads sought in hit-and-run death," that Taylor is the second person to die at the truck stop. Three years ago, another man was struck by a big rig and killed in a hit-and-run accident.

Truck stops are most dangerous during the evening hours, according to ABC-affiliate KSFY in Sioux Falls. Truckers told KSFY that by the evening, drivers are trying to finish up their day. They're tired and may not be concentrating on their surroundings.

Carl Riddle, one of the truck drivers interviewed, said his truck was hit at a truck stop recently. He observed that at truck stops in the evening, "paying attention just kind of goes away."

Riddle admitted that in the rush to get back out on the road, the situation can become deadly.

"It's just something that I hope never happens to me. And yet in the back of my mind there is always the possibility that it could."

If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a trucking accident, contact The Hoffmann Law Firm through our online contact form or by calling 866-763-6433. 

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