The factors contributing to accidents involving semi-trucks are vastly different from typical auto accidents. The circumstances are unique, and so are the legal matters that need to be sorted out. These situations require the expert assistance of trained attorneys who know what they are doing. Today, we will look at what a semi-truck accident looks like from both a human and legal perspective.

Semi-Truck Accidents Are Catastrophic

Our modern economy relies heavily on the movement of goods, which means semi-trucks are a necessity for continued economic function. This also means there are always a considerable number of semi-trucks on the roads every day and night. The significant number of trucks out on the road means that many accidents involving those trucks are inevitable.

The reality is that there are roughly half a million accidents involving large trucks on the road every year. While some of these accidents are minor, the danger of a semi-truck crash is significant. The size of semi-trucks makes them more likely to cause injuries or fatalities compared to typical automobile accidents.

A fully loaded semi-truck can weigh approximately 80,000 pounds, while the average passenger vehicle weighs about 3,000 pounds. There is no question that a passenger vehicle will suffer severe damage if hit by a semi-truck.

Semi Truck Accidents are Among the Deadliest Types of Accidents

It’s important to understand the sobering statistics about the seriousness of semi-truck accidents. The extreme danger these trucks pose is clear when considering data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):

• Truck crashes account for approximately 20% of all fatal accidents on the road.
• More than 30 people die every day due to truck-related auto accidents.
• There are over 4 million trucks on US roads at any point in time.
• Roughly 1,300 people die every year because of truck accidents.

These statistics highlight the immense physical and economic damages that can occur in a truck accident. This is why specialized lawyers focus exclusively on this area of law, often securing higher damages in court compared to typical auto accidents.

How Common Are Semi-Truck Accidents in Florida?

According to the latest statistics, truck accidents in Florida are on the rise. This trend is particularly noticeable in Jacksonville, where the area’s transformation into a transportation and logistics hub has led to increased traffic.

Truck accident statistics are unsettling. The number of large trucks involved in fatal accidents recently increased by over 4% in just one year. Fatalities from crashes involving large trucks are up 36% since 2010, and injuries are up 96%.

Much of this increase is due to Florida’s rapid growth as a logistics center, attracting more trucking and logistics companies to base their operations in the state. This increase in truck traffic naturally leads to more accidents.

Common Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents in Jacksonville

Various factors contribute to truck accidents. Understanding these can help in building a strong case. The most common causes of semi-truck accidents include:

1. Inexperienced Drivers

   • The massive driver shortage in the trucking industry has led many companies to hire inexperienced drivers, increasing the risk of accidents.

2. Drowsy Driving

   • Drivers often feel pressured to continue driving even when tired. The Department of Transportation limits a driver’s hours, but fatigue still plays a significant role in many accidents.

3. Distracted Driving

   • Many trucking companies monitor their drivers to prevent distracted driving, yet it remains a major cause of accidents.

4. Unfamiliar Roads

   • Rapid changes in road infrastructure can confuse drivers, leading to accidents.

What Compensation Is Available to Semi Truck Accident Victims in Florida?

The increased risk of a semi-truck accident should prompt you to understand the compensation available if you’re a victim. A skilled legal team can help determine the types of compensation you might receive, including:

Economic Damages

• Future Medical Costs: Victims often require ongoing medical care beyond immediate treatment.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to injuries.
• Loss of Future Earnings Capacity: Injuries may impair the ability to work in the future.

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and Suffering: Both physical and emotional pain are considered.
• Disfigurement: Compensation for permanent scars and physical damage.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If injuries prevent enjoyment of previous hobbies and activities.

Punitive Damages

• Punitive damages aim to punish wrongdoers and deter negligent behavior, sending a strong message to trucking companies to uphold safety standards.

Third-Party Claims

• Wrongful Death: Surviving loved ones can sue for compensation if a family member is killed in an accident.
• Loss of Companionship: Compensation for the emotional impact of losing a loved one.

About The Truck Accident Law Firm

The Truck Accident Law Firm is dedicated to providing unparalleled legal expertise in semi-truck accident cases. Our team comprises board-certified attorneys and paralegals who focus exclusively on truck accident and semi truck accident litigation.

Founders Joseph Camerlengo and Joseph Fried have made significant contributions to the field, including helping to establish the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys and collaborating with the National Board of Trial Advocacy to create the Board Certification in Truck Accident Law through the American Bar Association. In fact, they have literally written the book on truck accident litigation: Understanding Motor Carrier Claims.

When you choose The Truck Accident Law Firm, you gain the peace of mind that comes from knowing your case is handled by true experts. Just as you wouldn’t trust major surgery to a general practitioner, you shouldn’t leave your semi-truck accident case in the hands of a general personal injury lawyer. Trust your case to the specialists who have set the standards in this field.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure that your case is managed by the top professionals in semi-truck accident law.