Getting into an accident with a truck, specifically with a commercial vehicle, can cause significant damage and result in very serious injuries. These commercial vehicles, such as semi-trucks or 18-wheelers, are typically involved in accidents due to their substantial size and weight, which surpass that of standard passenger vehicles. The sheer magnitude of these vehicles can lead to longer stopping distances, broader blind spots, and potentially more severe damage in the event of an accident. Every year there are more and more reports of truck accidents in Florida.

Types of Truck Accidents

Various types of truck accidents can occur, each with distinct characteristics and contributing factors. Rear-end collisions, for example, transpire when a truck strikes the rear of another vehicle. This is often a consequence of the truck driver following too closely, being distracted, or unable to stop timely. Rollover accidents, where a truck capsizes onto its side or roof, can be attributed to factors like excessive speed, abrupt turns, overloading, or improper cargo loading. Wide-turn accidents occur often, given that trucks need a larger turning radius compared to smaller vehicles. If a truck driver overlooks this fact and makes a broad turn without adequate signaling or checking blind spots, it can be the cause of collisions with other vehicles. Jackknife accidents are  characterized by the truck’s trailer swinging out and forming a V shape with the cab. These types of accidents typically occur when the truck’s brakes lock up, resulting in a loss of control.

Accidents caused by driver fatigue are also common in the trucking industry. If a truck driver succumbs to sleep or cannot react quickly due to drowsiness, it can lead to an accident. Another dangerous incident, the underride accident, occurs when a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of a truck and ends up sliding underneath it. Such accidents often cause severe injuries or fatalities.

Cargo-related accidents are another significant concern. If the cargo is improperly secured or overloaded, it can shift during transit and trigger accidents. Furthermore, debris falling from the truck or cargo spills can create hazardous conditions for other road users.

Other types of incidents may also occur.  If you’re unfortunate enough to be involved in such an event, it’s paramount to seek legal counsel from a law firm concentrating in personal injury law and one experienced in handling truck accident cases.

Injury attorney Todd C. Passman, P.A. handles truck accidents in Florida, pedestrian accidents, auto accidents, ridesharing accidents, DUI crashes, distracted driving, and bicycle accident cases serving Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, Vero Beach, Stuart, and Okeechobee, Florida, and surrounding areas.

Tell us about your problem. We can help.

If you, a family member or a friend have suffered a personal injury in a truck accident, or have questions please contact accident attorney Todd C. Passman today, at (772) 465-9806. Our office is conveniently located on S. Indian River Drive in Fort Pierce.