Commercial Trucking Accidents Attorneys

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Commercial trucks take all shape and form and are a common sight on Orlando roadways. Yet, these vehicles pose an accident risk due to many factors, and the effects can be staggering as well as long-lasting. If you’ve been involved in a commercial trucking accident, an accident attorney with 911 Biker Law can fight for your right to due compensation.

Dangers Of Commercial Truck Accidents

Today's passenger vehicles weigh, on average, around 3,000 pounds which is substantially less than the up to 80,000 pounds that a commercial truck can weigh (depending on the type of truck and cargo or freight). This differential puts a passenger vehicle in danger of catastrophic damage in the event of an accident.

Size Of Commercial Trucks

Each state determines maximum height, length, and width limitations for commercial trucks. Florida Statute § 316.515 restricts the height of a commercial truck to 13 feet, 6 inches unless the truck is an automobile transporter which has a limit of 14 feet. Vehicles are limited to a width of 102 inches while length limitations range from 50 feet to 65 feet depending on the type of commercial truck.   

Cargo & Freight

The cargo or freight being moved by a commercial truck also factors into the dangers of trucking accidents. Many commercial trucks haul hazardous items, such as gasoline, industrial chemicals, and heavy construction materials. When an accident happens, a commercial truck may lose the cargo and put others at risk of injury through direct contact or indirect exposure.

Common Causes Of Commercial Truck Accidents

Commercial truck accidents can occur for many reasons, most of which overlap with common causes of passenger vehicle accidents. Yet these causes can be specific to the specialized type of commercial truck involved, such as jackknifing. Other reasons for commercial truck accidents include:

  • Careless or reckless driving; and
  • Improper load weight.

While commercial trucks have many mirrors to help a truck driver view the surrounding environment, these large vehicles still have dangerous blind spots. If another vehicle is in one of these locations, such as directly behind the commercial truck, the driver may not be aware of the vehicle even when using the mirrors.

Common Injuries With Commercial Truck Accidents

The size and weight disparity between commercial trucks and most passenger vehicles create a significant disadvantage for the driver and passengers of the smaller vehicle. Though safety features in passenger vehicles have and continue to improve, when an accident involving a commercial truck occurs, the injuries are frequently catastrophic. Immediate medical attention and long-term treatment are usually necessary for:

  • Brain and head injuries;
  • Neck and spinal injuries;
  • Internal injuries;
  • Burns and lacerations;
  • Amputations; and
  • Paralysis.

What To Do After A Commercial Truck Accident

Document The Accident

Write down contact information for the commercial truck driver, including drivers license and company information, and any witnesses to the accident. Take photos and/or video with a cell phone of the vehicles, roadway, surrounding environment, and injuries. This information is highly beneficial for an accident attorney to build a strong case in your favor.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you or anyone else believes the injuries are minor, call 911 for medical treatment. A medical professional will be able to provide a thorough examination and make sure you and/or others aren’t suffering from internal injuries.

Contact An Accident Attorney

In the days and weeks after a commercial truck accident, many people are inundated with phone calls and paperwork from insurance companies eager to settle the case. While it may seem natural to accept an offer so you can focus on recovering, motorcycle accident lawyers with 911 Biker Law can review the offer and if necessary, negotiate an expanded settlement.