Car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents…these are common on Florida’s roads. But what strikes fear into the hearts of local drivers are commercial work truck accidents…and they’re on the rise.
Thanks to the ever-increasing population, the widespread construction of homes and businesses, and large amounts of land clearing, commercial trucks are as common on our highways and streets as regular commuter cars. Unfortunately, collisions with these large vehicles are becoming more common as well. In January, a logging truck killed two people in Bradford County, and just one month ago, a semi and box truck collided in a fiery accident right here in Polk County.
To better understand this specific category of accidents (and raise awareness to protect drivers), we must first ask:
What is a commercial work truck?
Commercial work trucks are any large-scale truck or vehicle that provides a commercial service to the population. Examples include:
Box Trucks
Box trucks include anything from a U-Haul to a delivery truck from the nearest furniture store. These trucks are often used for inventory transportation and delivery, junk removal, moving, or even taking materials to job sites. These trucks are notoriously top-heavy and are vulnerable to wind, road conditions, and weight distribution in the cargo box. When paired with their numerous blind spots, and often inexperienced drivers, box trucks cause many accidents on Tampa’s roads.
Work Trucks
This is a broad category that encompasses
- electric work trucks
- bucket trucks
- plumbing trucks
- contractors’ trucks
- painting trucks
and more! Any truck a business uses to carry workers and (or) materials and equipment is included under work trucks.
Logging Trucks
These trucks are a major risk to Florida drivers!
Logging trucks might seem like an obscure inclusion on this list, but they are becoming a big problem throughout the state of Florida. The University of Florida reports over 1,200 crashes involving logging trucks in the last decade alone. This is due to the influx of construction and land-clearing the state has experienced during this time. Logging trucks are not only dangerous because of their size and maneuverability, but also because of their cargo. One wrong move and the logs can shift, causing devastating accidents for drivers around them.
Refrigeration Trucks
Refrigeration trucks are another common sight on Central Florida highways. After all, who stocks all these grocery stores and convenience marts? Like the others above, these commercial work trucks cause many accidents annually, thanks to their size and weight distribution.
Why are commercial work truck accidents so dangerous?
Many factors make these vehicles a risk for other drivers on the road. Some of the most obvious factors are their size, their weight (and longer braking distances), and their many blind spots. However, accidents are also common with these trucks because of
- fatigued drivers who have spent too many hours on the road
- improper (or lack of) driver training
- mechanical failures with the truck itself
- drivers distracted with phones, food, or conversation
- improperly loaded cargo or unsecured cargo
What should I do if I was struck by a truck?
Commercial work truck accidents lead to a long list of injuries, many of which are severe with long-term repercussions. If you were struck by a truck, and aren’t sure what comes next, we’re here to help!
- Immediately after the accident, call 9-1-1.
- Document the scene with photos and video footage, or if you’re unable, ask a friend or family member to assist.
- Call Brooks Law Group!
Our team of dedicated personal injury attorneys specializes in commercial work truck accidents. We are committed to fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve after your accident. Best of all, our service is FREE, and you don’t pay unless we win.
Call today to schedule your risk-free consultation. When accidents happen, Tampa Bay always Looks to Brooks!
