Commercial Vehicle Accidents

Commercial vehicles, such as eighteen-wheelers and other large freight carriers, are a unique presence on Florida roads that are occupied mostly by smaller passenger cars. Commercial vehicles present dangers that are often unique when discussing motor vehicle accidents. Not only do commercial truck drivers need to be aware of the special circumstances presented by the large vehicles they are driving, but other drivers on the road also need to use caution in their presence. This is especially true on major highways and at higher speeds where seemingly insignificant driving errors can result in catastrophe when involving commercial motor vehicles.

Oftentimes Tampa traffic accidents between a passenger vehicle and a commercial truck are caused in part by an unsafe act on the part of the car driver. A common factor in collisions involving passenger vehicles and large trucks is the car drivers lack of regard concerning a truck's performance capabilities. This includes the commercial vehicle’s limits associated with acceleration, braking, and visibility.

Some common unsafe acts committed by car drivers in the vicinity of large commercial vehicles include driving in areas around the vehicle where the driver’s visibility has been reduced. These areas include both closely behind or beside the large commercial vehicle. Tampa car accidents involving commercial trucks can also occur when drivers change lanes abruptly in front of a truck, misjudge the speed a truck is moving, or passing a commercial vehicle unsafely.

Commercial vehicle drivers can also be the cause of an auto accident under certain conditions. With the large weight and overall size of many commercial vehicles, the driver can sometimes experience difficulties that cause an accident to happen. These reasons can include inadequate training of the driver behind the wheel, unrealistic schedules imposed by the trucking company, and drowsiness caused by long hours on the road.

The unique danger posed by commercial truck accidents can be made worse depending on the nature of the freight the truck is carrying. For example, if hazardous or flammable materials are being carried by the vehicle, secondary injuries attributable to such dangerous cargo can result. These include serious burns and respiratory injuries on top of the auto accident itself. In addition to the destruction of your vehicle, you may be left with costly medical bills and disability affecting you for the rest of your life.

Auto accidents in Tampa Bay involving commercial vehicles happen everyday in Florida. In the event that you or a loved one is involved in an accident with a commercial truck, you may be entitled to recover compensation for your injuries by bringing a legal claim against the responsible parties. Our vehicle accident lawyers in Tampa know how to help you receive compensation as the result of an accident. If you have been injured in the Tampa, Florida area involving a commercial motor vehicle, contact our law offices to speak with an experienced attorney who can help you with your case today.