In many vehicle accidents, only two vehicles are involved – the at-fault driver and to the other driver. In many truck accidents in Hollywood and across South Florida, however, the size of a tanker, 18-wheeler, big rig, or other commercial truck can cause a multiple vehicle or chain reaction accident.
Multiple vehicle accidents involving trucks occur for a number of reasons:
For truck drivers, the holiday times can be very busy. In fact, some UPS unions have filed complaints amid concerns about how workloads might impact driver safety. This year, UPS alone expects to have 750 million deliveries through the holidays this year, which means about double the volume during the rest of the year and over 40 million more deliveries when compared with 2016.
Drivers and unions have expressed concerns about company policies concerning holiday deliveries. Some companies allow drivers to work longer hours or expect drivers to drive up to 70 hours per eight-day period. Unfortunately, this can create a number of hazards.
Do you believe these misconceptions about truck collisions?:
Myth: Truck drivers don’t have to worry about being in a collision, because they are protected in the cab.
Fact: Passenger car drivers, pedestrians, motorcyclists, and bicyclists are most at risk in a trucking collision because they are protected by fewer layers. However, truck drivers need to think about safety, too. The impact of the collision can cause them to get thrown around the inside of the cab or even clear of the vehicle, which can lead to life-threatening injury. Anything in the cab can become a projectile in the event of a crash, causing serious injury to the driver. If the big rig, tanker, or truck rolls over, the truck driver can be seriously hurt. In addition, if the cargo is hazardous, a collision can cause a spill or fire which can cause serious injury to the driver.
Many people have misconceptions about trucking accidents, and unfortunately some of these myths can impact their ability to share the road safely with larger vehicles. Do you believe any of these myths?:
If you have been in a truck accident in Hollywood or anywhere in Southern Florida, the clock is ticking. The moment you are in a crash, your choices can impact your claim and the compensation you receive. Even minor decisions on your part can have an impact on your financial and legal future.
If you have been in a trucking collision, you may wonder if and when you need to contact an attorney. The reality is that it is important to make this call as soon as you can. The sooner you make that contact, the faster you can get legal advice about your situation.
If you have been in a truck or car crash in Hollywood and have walked away seemingly without a scratch, you may consider yourself lucky. After all, many truck collisions result in serious and even devastating injury. However, before you feel too fortunate, keep in mind that sometimes seemingly minor traffic crashes can become serious.
Unfortunately, when a car or truck accident happens you do not have all the information you need to determine whether your crash was serious or not. You may feel fine only to develop symptoms later on. You may even be misdiagnosed by a doctor after your accident, adding to the confusion. For this reason, it is important to consult with a personal injury attorney and to carefully consider your position before making any decisions about a settlement or insurance offer.
Chain reaction truck accidents in Miami and other South Florida communities occur when a trucking accident causes multiple other accidents. Because of the size of tractor trailers, tankers, and other commercial vehicles, chain reaction accidents are not uncommon in situations where a commercial vehicle is in a collision.
Chain reaction accidents are especially deadly because they can involve multiple points of impact. This can mean passengers are impacted or jostled multiple times, increasing the risk of injury and complicating injuries already sustained. The force of the crash can also be greater with a chain reaction accident with multiple points of impact.
Over the past few years, there has been much debate about the advantages and dangers of big trucks. Some experts in the trucking industry have sought to increase the maximum size of commercial trucks permitted on the nation’s roads, claiming more trucks is better economically, for the environment, and for safety.
But can larger trucks really reduce the number of truck accidents in Miami and other cities across the nation? According to The Coalition Against Bigger Trucks (CABT), the answer is “no.” The advocacy group points out there are a number of safety dangers with larger tractor trailers, including:
According to researchers – including Monica He of the University of Pennsylvania – there may be a strong link between national economic well-being and trucking accidents. Research suggests that during economic downturns and recessions, the overall number of truck accidents declines. When the economy is rebuilding – such as currently – truck accidents increase again.
According to researchers, part of the reason may have to do with the fact that when the economy is thriving, more goods are being delivered to stores and businesses. More businesses are ordering, more customers are buying, and there is greater need for transportation in general.
A truck accident in South Florida or Hollywood can be terrifying. Being struck by a large vehicle will generally cause devastating car damages and may cause catastrophic injuries for you and your passengers. If you have been injured, you’ll want to do everything possible to hold onto your rights.
Unfortunately, insurance companies and attorneys representing the truck company may contact you right away. They may want you to give statements or to sign documents. Even your own insurance company may want you to sign documents.
Florida Injury Lawyer Blog