We’ve all been tempted to report erratic truck drivers. It’s common to travel on Interstate 4 and see cars racing or be forced to avoid a swerving car on deadly Highway 27. but drivers of large trucks and commercial vehicles are just as guilty of erratic driving, and their accidents come with much BIGGER consequences.
Because of the size and weight of their rigs, large truck drivers hold greater responsibility for their actions behind the wheel. They are responsible for their safety, the safety of motorists around them, and the cargo they carry. As commercial truck accident injury attorneys, we know truck accidents are often severe, leaving victims with significant damages and injuries.
Why should I report erratic truck drivers?
Aside from the fact that erratic driving fails to follow the rules of the road, reasons to report erratic truck drivers include:
Reporting protects other drivers.
Large trucks typically travel major roadways in and around Tampa Bay. From Lakeland’s many warehouses to Tampa’s cargo port, our highways are densely populated by semis, work trucks, delivery vans, and other commercial vehicles. These roads are also filled with commuters, soccer moms, vacationers, and a plethora of other motorists and their passengers. One irresponsible truck driver could kill, or injure, multiple victims in one accident. The National Highway Traffic Safety Association estimates that over 70% of people killed in large truck accidents were drivers or occupants of other vehicles. Reporting erratic truck drivers protects you, and others, from dangerous crashes.
Reporting gets dangerous truck drivers off the road.
Police routinely ticket truck drivers reported for erratic driving and will take their licenses, or worse. While this is unfortunate for the driver, it’s important for the safety of our communities. Getting dangerous drivers off the road prevents truck accidents and makes Florida a safer state!
Reporting holds companies accountable for their hiring decisions.
Many truck drivers work for larger corporations. If these companies don’t complete due diligence when hiring, they are (in some cases) responsible for accidents caused by their drivers. Drivers who have previous charges for poor driving decisions, or those who didn’t complete appropriate training, should never climb behind the wheel of a commercial vehicle. Companies should be held accountable for their hiring process and only be allowed to put qualified drivers behind the wheels of their trucks.
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What does erratic driving look like and when should I report it?
It’s important to report erratic truck drivers immediately if you see something suspicious. Erratic driving includes:
- swerving off the road, or into other lanes
- sudden braking, or excessive braking
- speeding
- taking turns too quickly
- changing lanes suddenly
- failing to use a turn signal
- tailgating other vehicles
If you see a truck driver, or any driver, meeting the above criteria, call and report them ASAP!
Who should I call to report erratic truck drivers?
What should you look for to report erratic truck drivers?
If you see an erratic truck driver, pull over when it’s safe to do so and call! In Florida, there are three ways to report erratic truck drivers:
9-1-1
Of course, 9-1-1 is the best choice when you need help fast. While erratic driving might not seem like an emergency, it can be, especially when it involves semi trucks and large vehicles. Let the dispatcher know what’s going on, and they can connect you with the appropriate resource. Provide your information and the plate number of the offending truck if you’re able.
Florida Highway Patrol
According to Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles,
“If you would like to report drunk drivers, traffic crashes, stranded or disabled motorists, or any suspicious incidents occurring on Florida roadways, please dial *FHP(347) from your mobile phone.”
Florida Highway Patrol will be able to respond to the erratic driving and take appropriate action. Have your information ready! If possible, offer the plate number of the truck in question.
Company reporting number
Many commercial vehicles have a “How’s My Driving” advertisement or contact information for the company on the back of the truck. While not the first choice for emergencies, it is important to report erratic truck drivers to these companies. Again, it holds corporations responsible for the drivers they put on the roads.
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Who should I call after a truck accident with an erratic driver?
Truck accidents are traumatic, and receiving the support you need is crucial. After a collision with a large truck or commercial vehicle in Central Florida, your first call (after emergency services) should be Brooks Law Group. Our team of experienced truck accident attorneys is ready and waiting to help you navigate the complex path of pursuing justice.
We have conveniently located offices in Tampa, Winter Haven, and Lakeland, and proudly serve cities throughout the greater Bay area. Getting in touch is easy with a simple phone call or our online contact form. If you can’t get to us for your consultation, don’t worry! We’ll meet with you at your home, at work, or in the hospital. Our contingency fee offers you our services risk-free. You don’t pay unless we win! With Brooks Law Group, getting help is easy and affordable.
Truck accident victims always Look to Brooks.
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