Truck Accident Attorney

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How are truck accident cases different from accidents involving passenger cars only?

In Florida, trucking companies and commercial semi truck drivers are subject to special rules and regulations set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Division of Motor Carrier Compliance (MCC).

Among the regulations are limits on how many hours a truck driver can drive, the type and weight of the load, and inspection and maintenance requirements. Truck drivers also have special training and licensing requirements.

Are trucks required to carry insurance?

Federal law requires commercial vehicles involved in interstate commerce to carry at least $750,000 in bodily injury and property damage insurance.  Florida law generally requires a commercial carrier to carry at least $1,000,000 commercial vehicle policy.  Most trucking companies also have additional insurance coverage, called "excess" coverage.

What factors contribute to truck accidents?

Because they are heavier, larger, and more difficult to brake and steer than passenger cars, large truck are more likely to lose control and cause serious damage in a traffic accident or highway accident. Because of their larger weight and momentum, large trucks have greater difficulty recovering from problematic circumstances, especially in wet weather. Improper maintenance can compound the problem.

Why are trucks more difficult to brake?

Passenger car brakes are mechanical/hydraulic systems. Because most truck braking systems use pressurized air, it takes time for the air to travel through hoses to the brake shoes, creating a small delay before the brakes engage. And because of their added weight, trucks also require greater stopping distances. Often, you can hear an 18 wheeler making loud, unique, sounds when stopping and starting, which is the sound of the air brakes releasing air through the rubber tubing.

How are weight restrictions on trucks enforced?

Weight limits on trucks are enforced through the use of weigh stations along interstate highways, including I-75. Some modern weigh stations weigh trucks as they roll over devices located under the road. A transmitter on the truck allows weigh station authorities to identify it. There are very few of these weigh stations on I75 in Southwest Florida.

Are there devices that are used to limit a truck's speed?

Some companies install such devices, known as “governors” in their commercial trucks. These are often installed on more local commercial delivery trucks, such as box trucks. Most trucking companies do not install speed governor devices knowing that their drivers will sometimes speed to meet a deadline.

Are multi trailer trucks more dangerous than single trailer trucks?

Multi trailer trucks are 2-3times more likely to be involved in a road accident. The additional connection, or coupling, points between the first trailer and second trailer, make these 22-wheeler, 24-wheeler, and 26-wheelers more difficult to handle.  Such multi-trailer tractor trailers cause greater instability that can lead to trailer swing and jack knifing, among other problems.

In Southwest Florida, examples of such trucks we most commonly experience are commercial trucks operated by overnight delivery carriers.

Who can be held liable in a truck accident lawsuit?

Parties that may be held responsible in a truck accident lawsuit include:

• Truck driver
• Owner of the trailer
• Owner of the tractor, or cab
• Truck company whose logo or markings are on the trailer
• Owner of the contents, or load, in the trailer
• In some circumstances, the facility that loaded the contents onto the trailer
• Insurance company failing to act in good faith

Our accident attorneys have experience and knowledge of Federal and State regulations that apply to truck drivers and trucking companies. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a truck accident, or if you have additional questions or need a truck accident attorney, then please contact us.

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