Legal Claim helps 18 Wheeler Accident Victims Recover
Everyday Floridians share the road with large 18-wheeler trucks. The size of the truck makes them dangerous and destructive if they are not handled properly. In fact, some of the worst accidents on the road involve a collision with large trucks. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reported that there were 5.6 million crashes in 2013, approximately 6.8% involved 18-wheeler trucks. Additionally, the FMCSA reported that there were 30,057 fatal car accidents in 2013. Approximately 3,806 of those fatal accidents involved large trucks. With the potential for so many accidents with large trucks, it is important to know what causes 18 wheeler truck accidents and important steps to take after an accident with an 18-wheeler.
Causes of 18 Wheeler Accidents
Large trucks are critical to business and industry in Florida. The large volume of trucking traffic moving through Florida daily means that the potential for 18-wheeler accidents is high. The causes of truck accidents are similar to cause of automobile accidents. However, the consequences can be more deadly and devastating. Although there is no one cause of trucking accidents, common causes include:
- Driver fatigue;
- Drug use;
- Alcohol use;
- Speeding;
- Distracted driving;
- Inexperienced driver;
- Mechanical failure; and
- Overloaded vehicle.
18-wheeler Trucks Must Adhere To Strict Guidelines
While the causes of truck accidents are similar to causes of automobile accidents, there are federal state and federal regulations for the trucking industry. Federal law subjects truck drivers to strict guidelines on all aspects of trucking including: amount of hours driven in a day, the proper way to load a trucks, procedure to follow after an accident and proper driving maneuvers. Likewise, Florida law regulates the movement of a truck while passing through city limits. These laws are in place to help protect public safety and decrease 18-wheeler accidents. If an accident is caused because a driver failed to adhere to these regulations victims may have a potential legal claim.
Legal Claims Help 18-wheeler Accident Victims Recover
A legal claim may be key for a victim seeking to recover fully after a truck accident. Many accident victims may be able to use insurance to cover some costs after an accident with a truck. However, filing a legal claim will help a victim recover damages for medical bills, property damage, pain and suffering, lost wages or wrongful death. Furthermore, filing a legal claim will prompt an in-depth investigation. An investigation into the cause of the accident may reveal multiple responsible parties.
18-Wheeler Victims Accidents Deserve Compensation
Legal claims involving 18-wheeler accidents can be lengthy and complicated. It is possible there will be multiple parties involved in every aspect of the claim. If you or a loved one was injured in an accident with a truck, then you will want an attorney capable of handling a multifaceted claim. Alan Goldfarb, P.A. has successful experience in personal injury law. The Miami truck driver accident attorneys at our firm can provide you and your family advice and counsel on your options after a truck accident. Contact us to schedule a free consultation with our office by calling (305)-371-3111.
