Common Truck Accidents in Florida
The attorneys at Paul | Knopf | Bigger are experienced Florida truck accident attorneys. This experience allows them to be able to assist truck accident victims in pursuing their case against the largest trucking companies in the world. Below is a summary of the most common types of truck accidents in Florida.
Heavy commercial trucks account for less than 5% of all registered vehicles in the United States. However, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reports that more than 13% of all fatal crashes on U.S. roadways involve at least one large commercial truck or bus. With over 273 million registered vehicles in the country, including approximately 13.2 million large commercial trucks, the impact of these accidents is significant.
The situation in Florida is similarly alarming. The Sunshine State, with its extensive network of highways and bustling ports, sees considerable truck traffic. This increases the risk of severe truck accidents, which often result in devastating consequences for those involved, especially the occupants of other vehicles.
Common Types of Truck Accidents in Florida
Understanding the common types of truck accidents can help recognize potential dangers and advocate for safer road practices. Here are the seven most common types of truck accidents in Florida:
1. Truck Rollovers
The Catastrophic Nature of Truck Rollovers
Truck rollover accidents are among the most catastrophic types of wrecks. Due to their higher center of gravity, tractor-trailers and other large commercial trucks are more prone to rolling over, especially when navigating tight turns or sudden swerves.
Causes of Truck Rollovers
Several factors can contribute to rollover accidents:
- Driver Error: Speeding, distracted driving, fatigue, or driving under the influence.
- Improper Loading: Overloaded or improperly balanced cargo can cause the trailer to sway dangerously.
- Tire Blowouts: Poor maintenance or manufacturing defects can lead to tire blowouts, causing the driver to lose control.
2. Rear-End Collisions
The Impact of Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions involving large trucks can be devastating due to the significant size and weight difference between trucks and passenger vehicles. Trucks require much more time and distance to stop, making them prone to rear-end collisions if the driver is not attentive.
Common Causes of Rear-End Collisions
- Distracted Driving: Using a phone, eating, or other distractions.
- Speeding and Tailgating: Not maintaining safe following distances.
- Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to fatigue, reducing reaction times.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol or drug use impairs judgment and reaction times.
3. Head-On Collisions
The Devastation of Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are often fatal due to the combined force of impact when two vehicles collide head-first. These accidents can occur when a truck drifts into oncoming traffic or at intersections when proper right-of-way is not observed.
Factors Leading to Head-On Collisions
- Driver Fatigue: Falling asleep at the wheel or losing concentration.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol, drugs, or excessive use of stimulants.
- Mechanical Failures: Tire blowouts or other mechanical issues causing loss of control.
4. Jackknife Accidents
Understanding Jackknife Accidents
Jackknife accidents happen when the trailer of a large truck swings out to form a 90-degree angle with the cab, resembling a folding jackknife. This type of accident is hazardous due to the unpredictability of the trailer’s movement.
Causes of Jackknife Accidents
- Improper Braking: Sudden or hard braking, especially in bad weather.
- Sharp Turns: Taking turns too quickly or at improper angles.
- Road Conditions: Slippery or uneven road surfaces.
5. T-Bone Accidents
The Severity of T-Bone Accidents
T-bone accidents, also known as side-impact or broadside crashes, occur mainly at intersections. They happen when a truck crashes into the side of another vehicle, forming a “T” shape. These accidents are particularly dangerous for occupants on the side of the impact.
Common Scenarios Leading to T-Bone Accidents
- Running Red Lights or Stop Signs: Ignoring traffic signals.
- Improper Turns: Making unsafe turns across traffic lanes.
- Distracted or Impaired Driving: Not paying attention to the road.
6. Sideswipe Accidents
Dangers of Sideswipe Accidents
Sideswipe accidents occur when two vehicles traveling parallel to each other collide. In the case of trucks, these accidents often result from the driver not checking blind spots before changing lanes or merging.
Factors Contributing to Sideswipe Accidents
- Blind Spots: Trucks have large blind spots, and failure to check these can lead to accidents.
- Distracted Driving: Losing focus on the road.
- Road Conditions: Wind, obstacles, or tire blowouts can cause a truck to veer into another lane.
7. Wide Turn Accidents
Challenges of Making Wide Turns
Trucks need more space to make turns, especially right-hand turns, which are tighter than left-hand turns. If not executed properly, these turns can result in accidents with vehicles in adjacent lanes.
Causes of Wide Turn Accidents
- Improper Technique: Swinging wide to the left before turning right.
- Driver Distraction or Impairment: Not paying attention or being under the influence.
- Misjudgment of Clearance: Failing to assess the available space and time correctly.
Contact a Florida Truck Accident Attorney Today
No matter the type of truck accident that caused your injuries, you shouldn’t bear the financial burden if it wasn’t your fault. An experienced Florida truck accident attorney can help you pursue your deserved compensation.
At Paul | Knopf | Bigger, we are dedicated to helping Florida residents affected by catastrophic truck accidents. We understand the long-term impact such incidents can have on your life, and we offer comprehensive legal assistance to ensure you receive the support and compensation you need.
We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay any legal fees unless we win compensation for you. Contact us anytime for a free, no-obligation consultation. Call us or fill out our online form to get started on your path to recovery and justice.
Sources:
- https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/sites/fmcsa.dot.gov/files/2020-10/FMCSA%20Pocket%20Guide%202020-v8-FINAL-10-29-2020.pdf
- https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/large-trucks/
- https://ai.fmcsa.dot.gov/CrashStatistics?tab=Summary&type=&report_id=1&crash_type_id=4&datasource_id=1&time_period_id=2&report_date=0&vehicle_type=1&state=NAT&domicile=ALL&measure_id=1&operation_id=null