EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — Crashes involving semi-trucks, motorcycles and impaired drivers are among the cases showing up most often in an El Paso attorney’s office, according to personal injury and employment lawyer Daniela Labinoti.
Labinoti said she has seen a large increase this year in semi-truck crashes.
She attributed the rise to the number of trucks on the road and El Paso’s location along a major transportation corridor, including heavy traffic on Interstate 10.
Along with the overall increase in semi-truck crashes, Labanotti said she has also seen more hit-and-run cases involving semis in recent months.
“I’m having two or three right now that we are still trying to locate,” she said. “I’ve actually even seen death where they kill people and just leave the scene.”
Labinoti urged drivers to avoid lingering near large trucks. “With semi cases, I always tell people never drive next to a semi, never drive next to them,” she said, adding that drivers should stay back and pass them rather than remain alongside them.
She also said motorcycle crashes have been a growing concern.
“It’s motorcycle accidents,” Labanotti said. “We’ve had numerous of those recently in the recent weeks.”
Labinotyi warned that motorcycle crashes can be deadly because riders have little protection.
“Please wear a helmet because if you do not wear a helmet the chance of your survival are slim,” she said.
She also pointed to an increase in crashes related to driving under the influence and urged people not to get behind the wheel after drinking.
“There is Uber; there is lift; do not risk your life,” Labinoti said. “Do not harm others It’s not worth it.”
Labanoti said she hopes drivers are more careful on area roads.
Legal Jargon: Attorney reports sharp rise in semi-truck crashes, more hit-and-runs
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