Florida is one of the busiest states for commercial truck traffic, with countless large vehicles moving goods and materials on the state’s highways and interstates. Unfortunately, with so many big rigs on the road, the chances of an accident occurring are significant. In fact, trucking accidents can cause injuries and even fatalities due to the sheer size and weight of the vehicles involved. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the top causes of trucking accidents in Florida.
- Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers often have long and grueling work schedules. Many of them work through the night. This can result in driver fatigue, which is a leading cause of trucking accidents. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has specific rules in place to limit the amount of time a driver can spend behind the wheel in order to prevent driver fatigue, but not all drivers follow these rules.
- Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is another leading cause of trucking accidents in Florida. Truck drivers have many distractions on the road, including cell phones, GPS devices, and other electronic gadgets. In addition, drivers may be distracted by billboards, other vehicles, or even their own thoughts. This can lead to accidents, especially when a truck driver takes their eyes off the road for a few seconds.
- Speeding: Commercial trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, which means they require more time and distance to come to a stop than a passenger vehicle. When a truck driver is speeding, they may not be able to stop in time to avoid a collision. In addition, speeding can cause a truck to tip over, which can be dangerous for other vehicles on the road.
- Improperly Loaded Cargo: Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring that their cargo is loaded safely and securely. If the cargo is not properly loaded, it can shift during transit, causing the truck to tip over or jackknife. In some cases, improperly loaded cargo can even fall off the truck and onto the road, creating a hazard for other drivers.
- Mechanical Failures: Commercial trucks are complex machines that require regular maintenance to keep them running safely. When a trucking company fails to maintain their vehicles properly mechanical failures can occur. This can include problems with the brakes, tires, or steering, any of which can lead to an accident.
What to Do if You’re Involved in a Trucking Accident in Florida
If you’re involved in a trucking accident in Florida, there are some important steps you should take in order to protect your legal rights. First, seek medical attention right away, even if you don’t think you’ve been seriously injured. Some injuries, like whiplash or a concussion, may not become apparent until hours or even days after the accident.
Next, contact an experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in trucking accidents. Your attorney can help you investigate the accident and determine who is responsible for your injuries. They can also help you negotiate with insurance companies and pursue legal action if necessary.