7 Most Common Types of Truck Accidents in Florida and How to Avoid Them
Millions of trucks share the roadways with cars throughout the United States. Unfortunately, large freighters full of cargo can be dangerous and cause devastating accidents that leave many people injured. In a worst-case scenario, collisions involving trucks can cause massive pile-ups on roadways, hurting and even killing other motorists.
Safe Driving Around Commercial Trucks
Commercial trucks are immense vehicles that many people rather not share the roads with, but the key to avoiding a truck accident is being aware of how to share the road with them. Follow these tips to help ensure a safe commute:
- Do not follow too close behind a truck.
- Avoid passing a truck on its right side. A truckers largest blind spot is on the truck’s right side
- Avoid using high beams
- Avoid driving on the inside lane on local roads.
- Wait until you’re a car length’s in front of a truck before merging into its lane.
- Keep a safe distance
It should also go without saying that drivers should have their full attention on the road at all times. Drivers who take heed to these safe driving tips decrease their chances of getting into a large truck accident. However, ignoring just one of these tips can result in a severely damaging accident.
Truck Accidents Common to Central Florida
Certain types of truck accidents are more prevalent than others and depending on the type of accident, the result can range from simple property damage to debilitating injuries. The most common types of truck accidents in Florida include the following:
- Rear-End: Rear-end accidents occur when a truck strikes the back of a car or another vehicle. This type of mishap can cause severe injuries due to the massive stature of the commercial vehicle.
- T-Bone: A T-bone accident takes place when a freighter hits a vehicle from the side. This type of collision can total the car and result in serious injuries or death.
- Head-On: A head-on truck accident happens when a truck collides with the front of another vehicle. This is the most severe and deadly type of accident involving large carriers.
- Air Brake: An air brake accident occurs when a truck’s air brakes malfunction. This situation is dire and can be particularly devastating if the truck is traveling down a hill at high speeds and is unable to stop.
- Truck Rollovers: If a pickup’s wheels are unable to grip the road properly, it can result in a rollover accident.
- Tire Blowout: Tire blowout truck accidents can happen when a tire explodes. This can happen as a result of flat tires or extremely high tire pressures. When this occurs, the trucker often loses control of the vehicle, causing an accident. Rubber can also shoot out into traffic, which can put pedestrians and other drivers at risk
- Jackknife: A jackknife truck accident occurs when the driver brakes too quickly and the truck’s trailer swings outward in a sharp angle.
If you’re a driver who frequently comes across trucks, the best thing you can do is be aware to stay safe. Always give trucks plenty of space on the road and make sure the trucker can see the positioning of your vehicle. Most importantly, keep your eyes on the road and your reflexes ready in preparation of anything unsuspected.
Recovering After a Truck Accident
Recovering from injuries after a truck accident is a long and arduous process. Depending on the extent of your injuries, you may need various surgeries and physical therapy, requiring plenty of time off of work.
It may be possible to take legal action against the truck driver, the trucking company, or even the truck manufacturer depending on the circumstances of the impact. The process of obtaining compensation can be complicated and requires the assistance of a skilled attorney. You can always call for a free consultation and explore your options with a professional.
Experienced Central Florida Truck Accident Lawyers
The Orlando truck accident lawyers at The Umansky Law Firm are skilled personal injury attorneys who dedicate their time and efforts to helping you recover compensation for all accident-related damages. Attorney William Umansky has over 25 years of experience and dedicates his practice to passionately helping those in need. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
