Florida residents should know what factors are normally involved in truck accidents. This way, they may be more vigilant when sharing the road with big rigs. There are five common factors, the most widespread being driver error. Truckers, like anyone else, can be found driving drowsy, driving distracted, speeding or driving under the influence of alcohol.
Some truckers are not trained properly on braking techniques, so it makes sense that bad weather would be another common cause of 18-wheeler accidents. Harsh braking over wet, icy or snowy roads can lead to a truck skidding, hydroplaning and even jackknifing.
A third cause is lack of maintenance. Truckers are required to inspect their vehicles before every shift to prevent issues like worn brake pads and cracked windshields from worsening and raising the risk for a crash. Equipment failure is a fourth possible factor and is often due to the manufacturer making a defective or dangerous component. Companies that sell trucks may be held responsible for failing to detect bad components.
The last cause has to do with cargo. There are specific limits regarding the dimensions, size and weight of cargo. Overload a truck, and high winds may tip it over. Secure the cargo improperly, and it may spill out onto the road.
When tractor-trailer crashes are clearly the fault of truckers, trucking companies or equipment manufacturers, then those who were in a passenger vehicle and were injured may be able to file a claim. Negotiating a settlement with the guilty party is another matter and may require legal representation to end favorably. Victims may have a lawyer evaluate the case and determine how much they could be eligible for in light of Florida’s pure comparative negligence standard. The lawyer might hire investigators to prove the other party’s negligence.
