Common Causes in Florida Trucking Accident Cases

Many truck accident cases involve negligent or careless acts perpetrated by the truck driver. Often, these acts result directly from the use of illegal drugs, prescription medication, or alcohol. More recently, however, distractions such as cell phones and compact disc players have contributed to an increase in the number of accidents. Other accidents are caused by drivers who work long shifts beyond legal limits and suffer from lack of sleep. Speeding, tailgating, failing to reduce speed appropriately around turns and on downhill slopes, and other reckless driving also result in serious injuries and fatalities. If any of these factors contribute to a truck accident, the driver may be held liable for damages.

At Michael T. Gibson, P.A. our truck accident lawyers are also often able to file claims against trucking companies, contractors, employers, and insurance companies. Our truck accident lawyers provide Orlando and Central Florida victims a high standard of personalized legal assistance. We always aim to identify all liable parties in order to help ensure that our clients are compensated appropriately.

Common Truck Accident Causes

In addition to the dangers resulting from the size and weight of trucks, a number of driving factors can contribute to traffic accidents. The following are some of the most common causes of truck accidents encountered by our personal injury team:

• Inadequate Driver Training or Qualifications: Properly trained drivers should receive instruction on driving technique, safety concerns, and defensive driving.
• Unrealistic Driver Schedules or Expectations: Trucking companies sometimes encourage drivers to rush, in spite of the safety risks.
• Driver Fatigue: In an effort to meet strict deadlines, many truck drivers work continuously for hours on end. Drivers may fall asleep or lose focus on the road.
• Improper Loading: Failure to secure heavy loads often leads to accidents.
• Drunk Driving: Drinking alcohol or using other drugs can impair a truck driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.

Establishing Liability

A person or organization can be held liable for a victim’s personal injury or wrongful death if negligence is a factor. Generally, negligence occurs when a party acts recklessly and causes injury to another person. The truck accident lawyers at our Orlando firm establish negligence by showing that the at-fault party:

• had a legal responsibility to ensure the plaintiff’s safety;
• failed – through conduct, action, or inaction – to fulfill that legal duty; and
• the plaintiff was harmed or injured as a result.

Find Out How An Orlando Trucking Accident Attorney Can Help Your Case

Trucking companies can be held liable for injuries and damage that occur due to a number of factors, including insufficient driver training, unreasonable driver schedules, attempts to transport more weight than is allowable, failure to provide proper maintenance of the truck and its equipment, and the failure to equip trucks with necessary safety devices such as blind spot mirrors. In an effort to protect their own best interests, many trucking companies will discourage victims and their families from retaining legal representation, often offering small settlements in lieu of expensive court battles. It is vital, however, that you do not discuss the particulars of your case with anyone from the trucking company or its insurance representatives until first consulting with our experienced Orlando Truck Accident Attorneys to discuss your legal options.