Florida experiences a lot of truck accidents. In a recent year, there were more than 35,000 collisions with heavy trucks in the state. Because of how large these vehicles are, accidents involving big rigs can result in catastrophic injuries and fatalities. In large and busy cities like Jacksonville, FL, these collisions could end up involving many vehicles, too.
If you’ve been in a collision with a truck and suffered losses, our Jacksonville personal injury lawyers can help you get fair compensation. Call us at (904) 396-1100.
Below, we offer information on Jacksonville trucking rules and regulations and what could cause accidents. If you need assistance, contact our experienced attorneys at Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers for a free consultation.
How Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help You After a Truck Accident in Jacksonville, FL
Truck crashes can result in catastrophic injuries like traumatic brain injuries, paralysis, and more. If you’ve suffered as a result of this kind of collision, the best thing you can do is reach out to our Jacksonville truck accident lawyers for help. At Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers, we’ll provide the legal representation you need to recover your losses.
We offer services that include:
- Advising you of your rights
- Assessing your claim
- Investigating the trucking accident
- Gathering evidence that proves your claim
- Negotiating with insurers
- Advocating for you in court if necessary
We opened our doors in 2012, and since then, we’ve helped clients recover tens of millions of dollars. With over 80 years of collective experience, our team will provide the support and compassionate advocacy you need. Call us today to speak with a Jacksonville truck accident lawyer.
Laws and Regulations Governing Large Trucks in Jacksonville, Florida
The trucks that travel along Florida’s roads are governed by state and federal laws.
State Regulations
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) regulate commercial vehicles throughout the state.
FDOT and FLHSMV regulate many aspects of commercial trucks, including weight and size limits and safety equipment requirements. In the state, commercial trucks must have functioning brakes, headlights, mirrors, turn signals, and reflective tape.
These agencies also regulate driver qualifications, stating that all commercial truck drivers must have a Commercial Driver License (CDL). They must meet the minimum requirements to operate the vehicle.
FDOT and FLHSMV uphold the federal laws involving hours of service regulations as set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Drivers must also be ready to submit to alcohol and drug testing.
Federal Regulations
The FMCSA is the baseline for all 50 states when it comes to commercial trucks. It sets forth regulations that include hours of service. Drivers must not exceed 11 hours per day of driving, and they must have a rest of 10 consecutive hours before they’re eligible to drive again.
Drivers must also take a 30-minute break when they’ve driven for eight hours and can’t drive after 60 to 70 hours on duty in seven or eight consecutive days. If there are adverse driving conditions, drivers can extend the 11-hour maximum limit by up to two hours.
There are short-haul exemptions, too, for drivers operating within a 150-air-mile radius of normal work-reporting locations. Commercial vehicles must also have electronic logging devices that record the hours of service to ensure that drivers are adhering to federal standards.
The FMCSA also specifies driver qualifications, including needing to meet language proficiency as well as mental and physical fitness standards. They must hold a CDL and pass a medical examination.
If the truck carries hazardous materials, the FMCSA requires adherence to packaging and labeling standards, as well as training in emergency protocols. Trucks also have to be routinely inspected and maintained to ensure safety while on the road.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Florida
One of the most common reasons truck accidents occur is driver fatigue. Despite the state and federal regulations in place, truck drivers often drive longer hours than they should, especially if their employer requires them to meet certain delivery goals. A sleepy driver won’t be able to react as quickly when a hazard appears.
Distracted driving is a concern among all drivers, including truck operators. Engaging in anything that takes concentration away from driving is a distraction, including eating, texting, and even checking the GPS. A distracted driver won’t spot changes on the road in time to prevent a collision.
Intoxicated driving is another serious issue with truck drivers. Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol impacts reflexes and coordination — a deadly combination when driving a vehicle that weighs more than 10,000 lbs.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Skilled Jacksonville Truck Accident Attorneys
After suffering injuries and other losses in a Florida truck accident, you can get help from an experienced personal injury attorney. At Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers, we can guide you through the claims process so that you can get fair compensation. Call our Jacksonville truck accident lawyers at (904) 396-1100 to learn more about our services.
