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There are about 500,000 trucking accidents each year in the United States, with approximately 5,000 accidents per year resulting in deaths. Florida ranks as one of the worst states in the nation for truck accidents, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). In fact, Florida and just nine other states account for half of all fatal U.S. truck crashes.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reports that in a single year, 27 people died and 126 others suffered incapacitating injuries in truck collisions. Another 372 sustained non-incapacitating injuries, and 682 people had possible injuries.

The Florida Highway Patrol Office of Commercial Vehicle Enforcement enforces all Florida trucking operations. According to Florida Statute 320.01(26), a “Commercial Motor Vehicle” is a vehicle not owned by the government, with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 26,001 lbs. or more, or has three or more axles regardless of weight, or is used in combination (vehicle plus trailer) when the weight of such combination exceeds 26,001.

In addition to Florida commercial vehicle laws, the FMCSA is the lead federal government agency responsible for providing safety oversight and regulating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs).

The main categories of trucking laws include:

• Hours of Operation
• Licensing Requirements
• Electronic Logging Device Rule
• Specialized Training and Physical Requirements
• Driver Drug Testing
• Securing Cargo

The common causes of truck accidents include:

• Distracted driving
• Driving under the influence
• Driver fatigue
• Speeding
• Faulty maintenance
• Inadequate training and/or hiring
• Defective parts
• Other reckless drivers

“When drivers and trucking companies fail to follow federal and state laws, accidents can happen. These accidents can result in catastrophic injuries and even deaths. If you or a loved one is injured in a trucking accident, please contact our experienced Fort Myers truck accident legal team after seeking medical attention. Our team will investigate the accident, determine how it could have been avoided, and help determine what options may be available for potential compensation. There are no costs or attorney fees until we receive a monetary recovery for you. We are available when you need us, 24/7,” said Fort Myers Truck Accident Attorney Randall Spivey.

Fort Myers Truck Accident Attorney Randall L. Spivey is a Board Certified Trial Attorney – the highest recognition for competence bestowed by the Florida Bar and a distinction earned by just one percent (1%) of Florida attorneys. He has handled over 2,000 personal injury and wrongful death cases throughout Florida. For a free and confidential consultation to discuss your legal rights, contact Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. in Lee County at 239.337.7483 or toll-free at 1.888.477.4839, or by email to Randall@SpiveyLaw.com. Visit SpiveyLaw.com for more information. You can contact Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. in Charlotte County at 941.764.7748 and in Collier County at 239.793.7748.