DALLAS, TX – A driver was critically injured in a tractor-trailer accident in downtown Dallas early Thursday morning, reports CBS DFW.

Officials said the driver of the 18-wheeler was going west on the Woodall Rodgers Freeway when the incident occurred about 12:30 a.m.  As the driver headed onto the northbound ramp to Interstate 35E, the truck went off the overpass and plunged 30 to 40 feet. It landed on the tracks of a Dallas Area Rapid Transit rail line and caught fire.

It took fire rescue crews almost an hour to extricate the driver, who was transported to Parkland Hospital and listed in critical condition.

The incident toppled power lines and affected DART rail service, with Green and Orange line passengers having to take shuttle buses.  Crews also were dispatched to the scene for a cleanup of diesel fuel that spilled.

Trucking accidents comprise some of the most serious motor vehicle accidents, mainly because of the relative size and weight of the vehicles involved.  If you have suffered injuries or lost a loved one due to a trucking accident in the Dallas area, contact Robert C. Slim, the experienced Dallas trucking accident lawyer today.  He will review your case and help evaluate your options for pursuing financial compensation. He can be reached by phone at 214-321-8225 or by completing the free online case information form.