Accident victims can suffer serious and at times life-changing consequences due to the negligence of someone else. In crashes or collisions involving commercial vehicles, semi-trucks, 18-wheelers, and other tractor trailers, the damages can be catastrophic in nature. Victims who have suffered losses or damages in a truck accident should speak with a skilled Clearwater truck accident lawyer who can help make sure a full recovery is compensated.
Request a Consultation Today If you or your loved ones find themselves in a truck accident, contact Clearwater truck accident attorney Bryan D. Caulfield, Esq. for experienced representation backed by over 25 years of experience. Call (727) 308-6060 to schedule a free consultation!
Due to their large size and heavy loads, truck accidents can be deadly. In 2013, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA) Traffic Safety Facts, 342,000 large trucks were involved in traffic crashes across the nation. Fatalities numbered 3,964 and injuries numbered 95,000. These statistics are staggering, making it all the more important for you to seek help.
Some common causes of truck accidents include:
These cases can rarely be settled simply and are often caused by a number of issues. Large trucking companies and corporations hire extensive legal defense firms who specialize in protecting themselves and their fleets from being held responsible for injury.
In order to effectively determine who is at fault, it is important to retain the guidance and representation of a capable Clearwater truck accident lawyer. During the case, Attorney Caulfield will exhaustively investigate the circumstances leading to the accident, and craft a case that meets your individual needs.
Though the amount of hours truckers are allowed to drive is federally regulated, truckers are still expected to keep certain schedules. Often this leads truck drivers to skip sleep, cut corners in maintenance, or speed in order to fulfill their jobs on time. Though these factors may all be present, you should not have to pay for another’s reckless actions.
Drowsy driving is always dangerous, but when a 40-ton semi-truck starts veering into the wrong lane, it can create a particularly hazardous situation. Because of the weight and size of their vehicles, truck drivers can cause significantly more damage if they aren’t driving at their best, and should never drive drowsy. Unfortunately, failure to follow regulations can cause truck drivers to drive through the night or avoid required breaks between long hauls. These careless mistakes often lead to a lack of sleep that is dangerous to the drivers themselves and their fellow travelers.
A study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found nearly one-third of drivers have fallen asleep at the wheel, let alone the additional percentage who have driven while fatigued. According to the Federal Carrier Safety Administration, 1 out of every 8 truck accidents in the U.S. is caused by driver fatigue. Driving drowsy can slow down reaction time, lead to simple yet dangerous mistakes, and in many cases can result in the driver falling asleep at the wheel.
Regulations are put in place requiring drivers to receive rest hours in order to prevent driver fatigue, however, sometimes these rules are ignored. In some cases, companies may not follow regulations, mistreating their drivers, and putting them in dangerous situations. Drivers are required to log their hours, keeping a record of when they drive and when they rest, but this isn’t always implemented. In some situations, a driver may attempt to make up lost time or hours of driving longer than they should, leading to fatigued driving. Regardless of the reason, it is the responsibility of the driver and the driver’s company to ensure the trucks remain safe for other drivers sharing the road. If you see a drowsy driver, call 911 to report it immediately.
Anyone involved in an accident with a truck driver who fell asleep at the wheel has the option to seek legal representation and pursue compensation for damages. Car accidents can be frightening, especially when involving a large truck. These types of accidents put your life at risk and may cause you and your family unnecessary harm and stress. In order to properly exercise your rights, you need legal guidance.
Because of how dangerous commercial trucks can be in the event of an accident, truckers and the company they work for are heavily regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The FMCSA has many regulations that seek to both protect truck drivers and other, more vulnerable drivers on the road. One of these regulations is called the hours of service regulations, which outlines when truck drivers can be on the road and when they must rest. According to the hours of service regulation:
With a Clearwater injury attorney by your side, you can trust that your case will be expertly handled. Attorney Bryan has won numerous million dollar verdicts on behalf of his clients and capably crafts cases for each of his clients. With 24/7 availability and offices located throughout the greater Tampa area, Attorney Caulfield is dedicated to client satisfaction and convenience.
Pursue the compensation you deserve with Attorney Caulfield. Call (727) 308-6060 and ask for Bryan today!