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Truck accidents can have devastating consequences, leaving victims with serious injuries, and often resulting in fatalities. Recently, a tragic accident resulting in a fatality occurred at the intersection of Colonial Boulevard and Winkler Avenue in Fort Myers, Florida involving a car and a semi-truck. This incident underscores the need for motorists to be aware of the dangers posed by large commercial vehicles and semi-trucks and to take proactive steps to protect themselves on the road.

Florida Truck Accidents Involve Serious Risks

Commercial trucks, such as semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, and other large vehicles, are a common sight on Florida’s highways and roads. Although these trucks play a vital role in our economy, the size and weight of these vehicles make them significantly more dangerous than smaller vehicles. In a crash involving a car and a heavy truck, the occupants of the car are far more likely to suffer serious injuries or death. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), thousands of people are killed in truck accidents each year, with many more sustaining life-altering injuries. Because of the serious safety concerns involving large trucks, the Federal Government has passed laws and regulations to govern the trucking industry. 

The lead federal government agency responsible for regulating and providing safety oversight of large commercial motor vehicles is the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). FMCSA’s mission is to reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities involving large trucks and buses. To that end, the laws and regulations under the FMSCA’s oversight create a complicated legal landscape in trucking litigation. If you or a loved one is injured in a truck accidents it is important to seek out an experienced Fort Myers truck accident lawyer, who is familiar with these laws and regulations and can properly hold trucking companies responsible for the serious injuries that they cause.

Common Causes of Florida Truck Accidents

Understanding how truck accidents happen will help you avoid an accident with a truck. Some of the most frequent causes include:

1. Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers often work long hours and may become fatigued, leading to impaired judgment and slower reaction times. Although federal law regulates the hours truck drivers can operate, violations still occur.
2. Distracted Driving: Distractions, such as using a cell phone, eating, or adjusting the radio, can be deadly. Long hours increase the risk that drivers may distract themselves to avoid boredom. Pressure to complete assignments as quickly as possible further encourages drivers to avoid stopping to rest or engage in these distracting activities. 
3. Speeding: Due to the size and weight of trucks, speeding can be particularly dangerous. Trucks require a longer stopping distance, and high speeds can make it difficult for truck drivers to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions. As with distracted driving, pressure to complete assignments on time may encourage truck drivers to speed. Even in the absence of speeding, truck drivers commonly travel across high-speed interstates which increases the risk that the driver may not be able to avoid a collision. 
4. Improper Maintenance & Cargo Loading: Regular maintenance is essential to keep trucks safe on the road. Brake failures, tire blowouts, and other mechanical issues can lead to accidents if trucks are not properly maintained. Strict regulations attempt to address these issues, but accidents still occur. Similarly, accidents may occur if cargo is not loaded properly, placing the truck off balance, or increasing the risk that the cargo falls from the truck.
5. Unsafe Lane Changes: Trucks have large blind spots, making it difficult for drivers to see other vehicles when changing lanes. Their large size also requires a significant space to change lanes which can be difficult to find in high-traffic situations. 
6. Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, and other adverse weather conditions can make roads slippery and reduce visibility, increasing the likelihood of accidents. This is especially true considering that trucks already have a reduced ability to come to a quick stop due to their size and weight. 

Tips for Staying Safe Around Trucks

While truck drivers have a responsibility to operate their vehicles safely, other motorists can take steps to reduce their risk of being involved in a truck accident. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Stay Out of Blind Spots: Trucks have large blind spots on all sides. These areas include:
   • The area directly in front of the truck.
   • Both sides of the truck, especially on the right side; and 
   • The area directly behind the truck.

   If you cannot see the truck driver in the truck’s side mirror, the driver cannot see you. Avoid driving in these blind spots whenever possible. 

2. Give Trucks Plenty of Space: Trucks need more time and distance to stop compared to smaller vehicles. Do not cut in front of a truck or follow too closely. This is especially true in heavy traffic, where you may have to stop short to avoid a collision in front of you. If you are following too closely, your ability to see the traffic in front of the truck to anticipate a collision ahead will be blocked.
3. Be Cautious When Passing: When passing a truck, always pass on the left side, as the right side is a significant blind spot for truck drivers. Use your turn signals and ensure you have enough space to pass safely. Do not linger in the lane next to the truck. Pass as quickly but as safely as you can. Once you have passed the truck, do not return to the lane until you can see the entire front of the truck in your rearview mirror.
4. Watch for Wide Turns: Trucks require extra space to make turns, particularly right turns. Be aware of a truck’s turning signals and avoid getting caught between the truck and the curb. If a truck is making a wide turn, give it plenty of room to maneuver.
5. Adjust for Weather Conditions: In poor weather conditions, reduce your speed, increase your following distance, and give the truck even more space before changing lanes in front of it. Trucks are more susceptible to skidding and losing control on slippery roads, and reduced visibility can make it harder for truck drivers to see smaller vehicles.
6. Avoid Distracted Driving: To avoid any collision, stay focused on the road and avoid distractions while driving. This includes not using your phone, eating, or engaging in any activity that takes your attention away from the road. Staying alert can help you react more quickly to potential hazards.
7. Use Caution at Intersections: As shown by the recent collision at Colonial Boulevard and Winkler Avenue, intersections are common sites for accidents, especially those involving trucks. Be extra cautious when approaching intersections and look out for large trucks that may be turning or crossing. 

Contact an Experienced Fort Myers Truck Accident Attorney

Truck accidents can result in life-altering consequences, but by understanding the risks and following safety tips, you can reduce your chances of being involved in one. Trucking accidents often involve complicated legal issues and both state and federal law, and so it is extremely important that you consult with a lawyer who is especially familiar with these issues. 

As experienced Fort Myers truck accident lawyers, we are committed to helping accident victims recover and ensuring negligent truck drivers are held accountable for their actions. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, do not hesitate to reach out to us for the aggressive legal representation you need. There are no costs or attorney fees until we receive a monetary recovery for you. Please contact the Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. at 239.337.7483, toll-free at 1.888.477.4839, or contact us online at SpiveyLaw.com.