Florida truck accidents claim the lives of innocent motorists
Large commercial trucks pose a threat to other motorists on the road, especially if they are operated by impaired, distracted or drowsy drivers.
Large commercial tractor trailers are an essential part of the country’s economy, delivering necessities to various locations nationwide. Driving alongside these massive vehicles can be a bit scary and for a good reason. Tractor trailers were responsible for killing at least 3,800 motorists nationwide in 2012, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Approximately 194 of those deaths occurred in Florida. Federal and state agencies are taking notice of what is causing these truck accidents and are enacting policies in an attempt to decrease the number of truck accident-related deaths.
TRUCK DRIVER DISTRACTION
Distracted, drowsy and inexperienced truck drivers may make critical mistakes, resulting in traumatic truck accidents. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has made it illegal for commercial truck drivers to use cellular devices while driving; however, many truck drivers continue to engage in the deadly practice.
One such incident recently occurred in Arizona when a Department of Public Safety captain was fatally injured in a tractor trailer collision. The Huffington Post reports that the truck driver who hit him was traveling at speeds exceeding 65 mph, while searching the web and watching videos on his mobile phone. Although rescue teams recovered the officer’s body from his vehicle using the Jaws of Life, he was declared dead at the scene. The truck driver faces six counts of criminal damage, one count of second-degree murder and 13 counts of endangerment.
Many people are pointing to drowsiness as the cause of a high-profile truck accident resulting in the death of a New Jersey comedian and critical injuries to three other people, including celebrated comedian Tracy Morgan. According to The Star-Ledger, the large commercial truck struck the comedians’ limousine as it was slowing down in traffic. The truck driver was found to have been driving for over 13 hours at the time of the accident. FMCSA regulations limit drivers to 11-hours behind the wheel each day. The driver was also traveling 20 miles over the posted speed limit.
ADDITIONAL CAUSES OF TRUCK ACCIDENTS
When driving a high-profile vehicle weighing up to 80,000 pounds, there are several things that can go wrong, according to a reputable insurance company. Equipment hazards, such as faulty brakes, broken lights or bad tires can trigger a tractor trailer to act irregularly. Bad weather conditions, including ice, wind, rain, snow and fog may cause a large truck to jack-knife, slide or tip over. Trucking companies and drivers have a responsibility to ensure their trucks are properly maintained. They should also know how to operate their trucks in bad weather conditions or know when to pull over and wait out the storm.
WHEN TO CALL AN ATTORNEY
People who have been injured in a commercial truck accident may want to contact a personal injury attorney as quickly as possible. Severe injuries and emotional trauma can make it hard for some people to return to work. People may also struggle with significant medical expenses as a result of serious injuries. An established attorney may be able to help you receive compensation in your case.
Keywords: truck, accident, injury, fatigue