If you’ve been injured in a Florida truck accident, then you already know that these collisions can be dangerously destructive. But do you know all the reasons why? Big rigs and semis are incredibly powerful vehicles that typically cause much more damage and physical harm than standard cars during an accident—and for numerous reasons. Keep reading to learn six key factors that make truck accidents more damaging and serious than any typical car crash.
At Herman & Wells, we have years of experience helping clients navigate complex legal issues related to truck accidents throughout the state—including determining liability and obtaining compensation for medical bills and other losses associated with these incidents. Contact our experienced attorneys today to get started on your case!
The Cliff Notes: Key Takeaways From This Post
- Compliance regulations have increased the risk of serious truck accidents due to factors such as driver fatigue, stress levels, and aggressive driving behaviors.
- Regulation violations can significantly impact truck accident liability and can even result in punitive damages being awarded to the victim.
- Hiring a lawyer with experience in tractor-trailer accident cases is essential for anyone involved in such accidents to ensure they receive fair compensation.
- Talk to one of our Florida truck accident lawyers today if you or someone you know has been involved in a truck accident in the state. Contact Herman & Wells to schedule a consultation.
The Size & Weight Of Trucks With Tractor Trailers
Trucks with tractor-trailers are typically much larger and heavier than standard passenger vehicles, and this can greatly contribute to the severity of accidents involving these vehicles. The sheer size and weight of these trucks mean that they require more space to maneuver and come to a complete stop, and they can cause significantly more damage in the event of a collision.
Additionally, these large vehicles can be more difficult to control, especially in adverse weather conditions or on uneven road surfaces. As a result, Florida accidents involving tractor-trailers are often more severe, with a higher likelihood of serious injuries or fatalities. It is important for drivers of these vehicles to take extra precautions and exercise additional caution on the roads to help prevent accidents and minimize the risk of harm to themselves and others.
A Quick Breakdown Of The Physics Involved In Collisions Involving Tractor Trailers
Collisions involving tractor-trailers can be incredibly complex, with many different factors at play. However, from a physics perspective, these accidents are largely influenced by the principles of momentum and force. When a large, heavy truck collides with a smaller, lighter vehicle, the impact generates a significant amount of force. This force is directly proportional to the mass and velocity of the truck, meaning that the faster the truck is traveling and the more massive it is, the greater the force it will generate upon impact.
Additionally, the momentum of the truck can make it difficult to stop or change direction quickly, especially if the driver is traveling at high speeds or has to make a sudden maneuver. As a result, accidents involving tractor-trailers can be incredibly destructive, with a high potential for serious injury or even death.
Busier Highways & Limited Maneuverability Equals A Dangerous Combination
The highways in Florida can be incredibly busy and congested, with large numbers of vehicles traveling at high speeds. This can make it difficult for truck drivers to maneuver their vehicles safely and quickly in the event of an emergency. Additionally, these trucks are often limited by narrow lanes or tight curves that can make sudden maneuvers almost impossible. As a result, the steadily increasing traffic congestion combined with limited maneuverability means the risk of truck accidents in Florida has only increased in recent years.
How To Maintain A Safe Distance From Trucks On The Highway
When driving on the highways in Florida, it is important to maintain driving safety tips when sharing the roads with tractor trailers in Florida include:
Maintain A Safe Distance From Large Trucks And Tractor Trailers On The Highway
The sheer size of these vehicles means they require more space to maneuver and come to a complete stop. Keeping at least three car lengths between your vehicle and a truck can give you enough time and space to react if something unexpected happens.
Be Aware Of Blind Spots
Large trucks have several blind spots that can make it difficult for the driver to spot your vehicle, so take extra caution when passing or being passed by one.
Exercise Additional Caution In Adverse Weather Conditions
Florida roads can be especially treacherous in bad weather, and tractor-trailers are particularly vulnerable to skidding or jackknifing. Make sure you drive slowly and cautiously on wet or icy roads to help prevent an accident.
Be Aware Of The Truck’s Speed
Large trucks require more time and distance to slow down or stop, so pay attention to the speed of any trucks nearby and be sure to give them ample space.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your time on Florida highways is both safe and enjoyable. Additionally, if you or someone you know has been injured in a tractor trailer accident, contact an attorney who specializes in truck accidents for legal advice.
Trucks Require A Much Longer Stopping Distance
The increased mass and size of a tractor-trailer require more time and distance to slow down or stop than a smaller vehicle. This is because, according to Newton’s second law of motion, the force required to bring an object to a stop increases with its mass. This means that the larger and heavier a tractor-trailer is, the more time and distance it will need to slow down or come to a complete stop.
The risk of rear-end collisions is increased when a truck requires a much longer stopping distance than a smaller vehicle. This is especially true on Florida roads, with the high volume of traffic and frequent stop-and-go driving conditions. When cars are coming to a stop more quickly, trucks behind them may not have enough time to react and stop safely. This can result in catastrophic truck accidents that have devastating consequences for everyone involved.
What Can Drivers Do If They Need To Make An Unexpected Stop On The Highway?
If you find yourself in a situation where you need to make an unexpected stop on the highway, it is important to use caution. Make sure that you check your rearview mirror first and then signal your intention to slow down or stop. If there is a truck behind you, allow plenty of space for them to come to a complete stop.
Why Cargo Shifts Increase The Risk Of An Accident
Cargo shifting is an important safety concern when it comes to tractor-trailer operations. Cargo shifting occurs when the load in a truck’s trailer is not properly secured and moves around during transport. This can cause the truck to become unbalanced, leading to dangerous driving conditions.
When cargo shifts, the center of gravity of the truck changes, meaning that the truck needs more time and distance to slow down or stop safely. This makes it even harder for the truck to slow down or stop safely and increases the risk of rollover accidents or cargo spills.
Safety Regulations That Are Supposed To Reduce The Risk Of Cargo Shifts
The federal government has established regulations for the safe operation of tractor-trailers. These rules include requirements for cargo securement that are intended to reduce the risk of cargo shifting and other issues that can lead to an accident. Cargo securement regulations require truckers to ensure that all cargo is secured properly in the trailer, with appropriate tie-downs, straps, and other methods of securement.
In addition to these regulations, trucking companies must also ensure that their drivers are adequately trained in cargo securement and safety procedures. This is essential for preventing accidents caused by improperly secured loads or incorrect driving techniques.
Why Truck Driver Fatigue Is More Common
Driver fatigue in Florida is a major concern when it comes to tractor-trailer accidents. The large size and weight of a tractor-trailer demands more attention and focus from the driver, and long hours behind the wheel can lead to exhaustion and an increased risk of an accident.
If you have been injured in a Florida truck accident caused by driver fatigue, it is important to seek legal counsel from an experienced attorney who understands the complexities of the law and how to protect your rights. A truck accident attorney can help you understand your legal options and pursue compensation for the damages you have suffered.
Safety Regulations That Are Supposed To Reduce The Risk Of Truck Driver Fatigue
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has strict regulations in place to help reduce the risk of driver fatigue and truck accidents. These regulations limit the number of hours that a truck driver can be behind the wheel and require them to take at least 10 consecutive hours off duty after 14 hours on duty. Additionally, these regulations require that a truck driver’s total work hours be limited to 70 hours in any 8-day period.
These regulations are intended to help minimize the risks of truck driver fatigue and the associated dangers that can come with it. Unfortunately, some trucking companies may pressure their drivers to violate these regulations in order to make tight delivery deadlines. This can lead to dangerous situations that put other drivers and pedestrians at risk.
Why Additional Regulatory Compliance Increased The Risk Of Serious Truck Accidents
Additional regulatory compliance has increased the risk of serious truck accidents due to various factors. For instance, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has implemented strict regulations, including electronic logging devices (ELDs), which require truckers to log their driving hours electronically.
While this regulation helps prevent driver fatigue and improves road safety, it also puts pressure on truck drivers to meet delivery deadlines, leading to increased stress levels and aggressive driving behaviors. Moreover, additional compliance requirements such as cargo securement rules, vehicle maintenance, and weight restrictions can result in truckers exceeding their driving limits, causing them to take shortcuts that jeopardize public safety.
How Regulation Violations Impact Truck Accident Liability
Regulation violations can significantly impact truck accident liability. Trucking companies and their drivers are subject to a wide range of regulations and safety standards aimed at reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring the safety of all road users. If a trucking company or driver violates any of these regulations, it can be considered negligence, which could increase their liability for any accidents that occur.
In some cases, regulatory violations may even result in punitive damages being awarded to the victim. Therefore, it is crucial for trucking companies and drivers to follow all regulations and safety standards to reduce the risk of accidents and minimize their liability in the event of an accident.
Hiring A Truck Accident Lawyer In Florida
Hiring a lawyer with experience in tractor-trailer accident cases is crucial for anyone involved in such accidents. Tractor-trailer accidents often result in severe injuries or even fatalities, and the legal process can be complex and overwhelming. An experienced tractor-trailer accident lawyer understands the complexities of the laws and regulations governing these cases and can provide invaluable guidance and representation throughout the legal process.
In Florida, tractor-trailer accident lawyers offer a range of services, including investigating the accident, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing clients in court. They work tirelessly to ensure their clients receive fair compensation for their injuries, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the accident.
Talk To One Of Our Florida Truck Accident Lawyers
Truck accidents can be complex and overwhelming, but with the help of an experienced truck accident lawyer in Florida, victims have a much better chance of receiving fair compensation for their injuries. The legal process involves understanding the complexities of laws and regulations governing these cases, which is why it’s so important to hire someone who understands them.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a truck accident in Florida, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our expert truck accident lawyers. Call (727) 821-319 to schedule a free consultation today! The lawyers of Herman & Wells are dedicated to fighting for you and helping you get the justice and compensation that is rightfully yours.