Jimmy Gaytan Killed in Rusk County Two-Vehicle Crash on FM 1716

Rusk County, Texas (December 3, 2021) – A man was killed Wednesday evening in a two-vehicle crash in Rusk County, according to the Texas DPS.

The fatal crash happened around 7:20 p.m., December 1, on FM 1716, about 3.8 miles south of Tatum.

DPS said a 2005 Freightliner towing a semi-trailer was traveling northbound on the wrong side of the highway while a 2007 Chevrolet Z71 was traveling southbound.

The Freightliner driver tried to move back into the northbound lane, but its trailer partially remained in the wrong lane and was struck by the Chevrolet.

The impact caused the Chevrolet to catch fire.

The Chevrolet driver, Jimmy Gaytan, 39, of Tatum, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Freightliner driver, Leonardo Ochoa, 28, of Alvarado, was uninjured in the crash.

The crash remains under investigation.

Commercial trucks are known to cause over 90% of accidents in Houston. These truck drivers must understand that their actions majorly contribute to most of the accidents on the roads. It is also important for others on the same roads with truck drivers to understand that maximum precaution should be taken while driving near trucks. While small mistakes like ignoring the turn signal prior to turning may cause accidents, major causes of these accidents are rooted in other factors like exhaustion on the part of truck drivers. If the reasons for the crash are anchored to the failure of following the right turn or driving at a speed that is not legally recommended, a wrongful death lawyer will be useful in such scenarios. 

If you have lost a loved one in an accident with a huge truck, it is advisable to get a lawyer who will facilitate the process of compensation.

Our attorneys at  Joel A. Gordon & Associates will fight for you.

To speak with an attorney Click to call: 281-943-5555.