18-Wheeler Accidents

Florida 18-Wheeler Accidents

In Florida in 2019, there were 33,166 traffic accidents involving heavy trucks, including 18-wheelers. Of these accidents, about 115 of them led to incapacitating injuries, and 25 caused fatalities.

Heavy trucks like 18-wheelers can be very dangerous on the road. For one thing, they are significantly larger than passenger vehicles, which makes them more difficult to control and even bring to a stop in an emergency. Add to that their weight, and you have potentially catastrophic accidents waiting to occur if anything goes wrong.

If you have suffered injuries and other losses because of an accident that involved a heavy truck, turn to South Florida 18-wheeler accident lawyers. At Coffey McPharlin, we’re ready to help.

How 18-Wheeler Accidents Occur in South Florida

A study by the United States Department of Transportation conducted at the national level shows that heavy truck accidents occur because of one or a combination of three main reasons — driver error, vehicle performance, and environmental issues.

Driver Error

Driver distraction is, by far, the most common cause of all types of traffic accidents in South Florida, including those involving heavy trucks. A driver who’s not fully focused on the road and what they’re doing can easily miss hazards. Smartphone use is a problem, but anything that distracts a driver can be deadly.

Intoxicated driving is another serious issue on Florida roads. Commercial drivers have stricter blood alcohol concentration limits than the general population, but even so, truck drivers who’ve consumed any alcohol at all are potentially dangerous on the road. Alcohol affects the central nervous system, worsening coordination and reaction times.

Drugs are also a problem, including prescription ones. Anything that can alter mood or concentration could lead to devastating accidents.

Fatigued driving is also a significant issue among commercial truck drivers. Many laws in place dictate how long drivers can be on the road and how much rest they need to get, but companies and even drivers themselves can cut corners.

Someone who’s tired will be distracted and won’t be able to respond as quickly to changes on the road as they need to. They could even fall asleep at the wheel.

Any driver who speeds while driving an 18-wheeler has the potential to cause fatalities and catastrophic injuries. The force a heavy truck has when speeding can crush passenger cars. Speeding doesn’t just mean going over the posted limit — it also means driving too fast for weather and road conditions.

Vehicle Performance

An 18-wheeler that is not functioning at its best puts everyone on the road at risk. Often, the fault lies with the company that owns the truck, since they have to ensure the vehicle is road-safe. In some instances, however, third-party maintenance companies are the ones that need to ensure vehicle performance.

Heavy trucks are used for the transportation of a variety of materials. If these materials aren’t loaded correctly, they can shift during transport. That affects the truck’s weight and could even cause it to tip. In those instances, the loading company can be held liable.

Environmental Issues

Road conditions also play a significant role in driver safety. Cracked pavement, potholes, unmarked lanes, and more can all cause accidents. An uneven road surface, for example, can lead a heavy truck to overturn, putting everyone around them at risk.

Why You Need Broward County 18-Wheeler Accident Attorneys

Accidents involving 18-wheelers tend to be highly complex because of the number of parties involved. A variety of entities can be liable, including drivers, loading and maintenance companies, and the truck’s owner.

Often, people assume that since Florida is a no-fault state, the claims process is easier because you have to deal with your own insurance company. However, insurance companies will try to do anything to avoid paying you what you deserve.

With Florida 18-wheeler accident lawyers by your side, you have people who are ready to fight for you.

Additionally, in accidents involving heavy trucks, your own insurance might not be enough to cover your losses. If you suffered serious injuries that require ongoing medical care or will prevent you from working, you need a lawyer to help you sue the other parties. That’s not something you want to do without experienced help.

Contact a Florida 18-Wheeler Accidents Lawyer

If you’ve been in an accident involving a heavy truck like an 18-wheeler, you need to have people with experience ready to help you get the compensation you deserve. At Coffey McPharlin, we offer representation to those who’ve suffered injuries and other losses.

We provide the guidance you need after going through such a traumatic experience. Call us today at (954) 289-6316 to learn more about how our Florida 18-wheeler accident lawyers can help.