It is imperative for large trucks to be properly maintained, drivers to be trained and licensed in their operation, and crowded highways to be without additional danger and distraction to increase safety on Florida highways near Hialeah. Florida State is among the most dangerous states for accidents relevant to tractor trailer mishaps out of the approximately 500,000 that occur every year in the United States. Crashes involving tractor trailers or big rigs cause catastrophic damage and injury because the vehicles are much taller and heavier than passenger vehicles. Common driving actions undertaken by tractor trailer drivers increase the risks of highway accidents or traffic problems including:
- Overloaded cargo – overloading, improperly loading and cargo that is not secure can lead to jack knife conditions, rollovers and cargo spills. The instability of the cargo load, through shifting or the weight can lead to accidents and is taken into consideration if legal action is taken.
- Swinging turns – swinging turns cause truck accidents as a large truck moves to the left before making a right turn. If there are other vehicles in the truck’s path as it swings outward to navigate the turn are in danger of being hit by the truck unless the driver can react in time and has observed the other vehicles in the surrounding traffic.
- Inability to brake – due to weight of truck or increased cargo load. Short stopping distances are unlikely for a large truck so they must follow at a safe distance, and be mindful of the weight changes of their cargo.
- Tire blowouts – often occur in the Summer months when the weather is hot and long driving occurs with heavy cargo loads. The blowouts can be caused by underinflation, overloading, potholes or bad roadway conditions, and a lapse in maintenance. Each case will shift fault based on these factors and may play a part in who pays accident damages.
- Driver training – if drivers are not aware of routes that facilitate height and weight of a tractor trailer, they can inadvertently end up in situations where the size of their vehicle becomes a danger to themselves, other drivers and complex roadways, bridges, or tunnel structures.
What should I do if I am involved in a truck accident in Hialeah Florida?
- Check on the condition of the people involved in the accident;
- Call the police or emergency responders if needed;
- Get a written accident report;
- Remain at the accident scene;
- Exchange driver and insurance information;
- Get witness contact information;
- Call your insurance company to set up a claim;
- Seek out medical treatment if necessary;
- Take pictures of the scene, and the vehicle damages;
- If the truck is a Commercial Vehicle, get State Trooper report;
- Call an accident attorney to determine “fault” and actions toward a proceeding to address damages and injuries sustained.
It is important for experts to collect and analyze all data related to a truck accident to determine fault by reviewing the police reports, witness reports, car damages, roadway marks, driver interaction, travel logs, maintenance reports and other factors present at the time of the accident. Florida Motorist Compliance mandates that all owned and registered motor vehicles are insured. The reason for this is to make sure people involved in automobile accidents can be compensated for their injuries and damages.
Hire an attorney.
Seeking effective legal counsel who has experience with truck accident cases will help victims to get the most comprehensive settlement based on the injuries, damages and insurance coverages of those who are at fault in a truck accident near Hialeah Florida.
Sources:
https://flhsmv.gov/pdf/crashreports/crash_facts_2017.pdf
