April 25, 2024
If you’re like many Americans who hit the roads regularly, chances are you’ve experienced an auto accident of some kind. Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration suggest that more than 6 million auto accidents occur annually across the country – that’s approximately 16 crashes per every 100,000 individuals!
But what about truck accidents? How do those statistics stack up? Are there notable trends within truck-related accidents, such as frequently occurring types of truck accidents in Florida or specific kinds of trucks frequently involved in fatal incidents? Truck accidents are a serious matter, hence the diligent efforts of the Florida Department of Transportation and the Florida Highway Patrol to mitigate them. Yet, despite the effort, these accidents still occur, often leading to severe injuries, deaths, substantial fines, and potential civil lawsuits.
To better understand the root causes of truck accidents and how to prevent them, let’s delve into the four most common types of truck accidents in Florida.
1. Rear-End Collisions
A significant proportion of truck accidents are rear-end collisions, an all-too-common incident on Florida’s highways. The average cost to repair damage from a rear-end collision comes in at $8,298. When two vehicles collide at low speeds (below 20 miles per hour), there’s an increased likelihood that other nearby vehicles will also be damaged. Consequently, up to six cars may be involved in a single rear-end collision, which further amplifies the cost of these accidents. It’s why we advise understanding your insurance policy limits thoroughly before venturing onto busy roads.
2. Failure to Yield
Always remember, trucks require extra room to safely maneuver. By pulling over when necessary, you contribute to everyone’s safety on the road. Trucks require an additional 12 feet compared to cars when executing a left-hand turn. Therefore, it’s crucial to move over as soon as you notice a truck needing extra space or preparing to make a turn. Not doing so could cause a traffic backup if cars suddenly slow down or stop, even though they had ample time to move aside completely.
3. Improper Lane Changes
Rear-end collisions, which often result from ill-executed lane changes, represent a significant number of truck accidents. When driving any vehicle, but especially a large truck that can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, maintaining awareness of your surroundings is crucial. Ensure your mirrors are correctly positioned to monitor what’s happening behind you when changing lanes – don’t rely solely on rear-view cameras.
4. Passing on the Shoulder
While it’s illegal and hazardous to pass on a double yellow line, many drivers take the risk. However, the potential dangers and frequency of accidents resulting from shoulder passing often remain unrecognized until something catastrophic happens. The double-lane and no-passing zones exist for a reason – the adjoining lane isn’t wide enough to safely accommodate two cars, let alone large vehicles like trucks, buses, or trailers. Don’t drive on it if you can’t safely navigate between two lanes or if there are obstructions on the road!
The Importance of Legal Representation Post-Auto Accident
Regardless of the type of vehicle you’re operating, with so many vehicles on the road, accidents are inevitably going to happen. Commercial trucking companies, in particular, must adhere to specific regulations and safety protocols relevant to their industry. If these standards aren’t met, they may be held accountable for any accident resulting in injuries or property damage.
If you ever find yourself involved in an auto accident with a commercial truck, make sure to obtain a police report. The police can help determine the at-fault party and gather valuable information that will safeguard your rights moving forward. Regardless of the accident’s cause, we strongly recommend hiring a personal injury lawyer to ensure your interests are adequately represented and protected, as these cases can quickly become complex.
Why You Should Consider Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been injured in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to seek financial compensation. Our team of seasoned Jacksonville car accident lawyers can help assess your case and provide guidance on your next steps. If an accident has resulted in the incapacitation or death of another driver, we can also represent their family members. Our attorneys, with their specialized experience in handling auto-accident cases, are especially valuable if your accident involved a large vehicle such as a truck, bus, or train. They possess additional knowledge on securing evidence from such accidents and prosecuting claims against negligent companies or drivers. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey – we are here to help.