Semi-trucks play a crucial role in Florida’s economy, moving goods across the state’s vast highway network. However, their massive size and weight pose significant road hazards to other vehicles, leading to numerous injury-causing and fatal accidents each year.
Over the last decade, fatal semi-truck accidents in the U.S. have spiked by 49%. This alarming rise prompts questions about the causes and the steps victims of crashes can take post-crash for fair compensation.
Read on to learn what’s causing these dangerous collisions and how the Florida semi-truck crash injury lawyers at Aigen Injury Law can help you obtain a fair settlement if you’ve been injured.
What the Numbers Say: Semi-Truck Crashes in the U.S.
The data on semi-truck crashes in the U.S. in 2022 paint a concerning picture. A total of 5,837 large trucks were involved in fatal crashes, marking a 1.8% increase from 2021. Per 100 million miles traveled, the number of fatal crashes involving large trucks went up by 3% between 2021 and 2022, and by 24% over the last decade. This is a worrying upward trend that doesn’t show signs of stopping.
Injury crashes involving large trucks also saw a rise, with 120,200 incidents in 2022, a 2.5% increase from the previous year. Since 2016, these figures have climbed by 18%, and the involvement rate of large commercial trucks in injury crashes has increased by 5.7% to 37 crashes per 100 million miles.
The numbers in Florida specifically reflect a similar trend. Fatal crashes increased by 3.6% between 2021 and 2022.
Causes of Semi-truck Accidents
The rise in semi-truck collisions and injuries is likely linked to specific factors unique to big rig accidents. These crashes often stem from different causes than those involving passenger vehicles, such as:
- Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers frequently endure extended periods behind the wheel due to strict delivery timelines and deadlines. Despite federal regulations limiting driving hours, drowsy driving remains a major issue for commercial truck drivers. It often results in impaired judgment and slower reaction times, which increase the risk of accidents.
- Distractions: The monotony of long-haul trucking can lead to boredom and distractions. Drivers may use electronic devices or other activities to pass the time, diverting their attention from the road.
- Substance Use: Some drivers turn to stimulants to stay awake, which can impair their ability to drive safely. Substance use among truck drivers, whether legal or illegal, poses a big risk to safety on the road. In one major study, over-the-counter drug use was a factor in 17% of truck crashes.
- Equipment Failure: Semi-trucks require regular maintenance to ensure they operate safely. However, mechanical failures such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts can lead to catastrophic accidents.
- Weather Conditions: Trucks are more difficult to control in adverse weather, such as rain, fog, or snow. Poor visibility and slippery roads can lead to accidents, especially if a truck is traveling at high speeds.
- Road Conditions: Poorly maintained roads, construction zones, and heavy traffic can increase the likelihood of accidents. In Florida, congested highways and urban areas are common sites for semi-truck crashes.
High Stakes Truck Collisions: Why You Need an Attorney for Your Claim
At Aigen Injury Law, we know how tough semi-truck accidents can be on victims and their families. These cases are complex, and the stakes are high, so having skilled legal counsel is essential to ensure you get the maximum compensation you deserve. Here’s what you gain by working with our firm:
- We Understand Complex Liability: Semi-truck accidents often involve multiple potentially liable parties, such as the driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, or cargo loaders. We have the experience to identify all potential defendants so that we can pursue every avenue for compensation.
- We Know How to Navigate High Insurance Limits: Commercial trucks typically carry insurance policies with much higher limits than passenger vehicles, sometimes up to $5,000,000. Our team has a proven track record of negotiating with these large insurance companies to secure favorable verdicts and maximum compensation.
- We Know the Federal Regulations: The trucking industry is governed by complex federal regulations. Our attorneys stay up-to-date on these laws and can identify when violations have occurred, strengthening your case.
- We Work With Top Medical Experts: Truck accidents often result in severe, long-term injuries. We collaborate with leading medical experts to accurately project future medical costs, ensuring your settlement covers all current and future expenses related to your injuries.
- We Act Quickly to Preserve Evidence: We know that crucial evidence can disappear quickly in truck accident cases. Our team takes immediate action to preserve essential evidence like driver logs, vehicle maintenance records, and black box data.
- We Fight for Fair Compensation: Trucking insurance companies often try to settle quickly and for less than you deserve. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who won’t be intimidated by large trucking companies or their insurers. If necessary, we’re ready to take your case to trial to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Get the Legal Support You Need
Semi-truck accidents can have devastating effects on victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been involved in a semi-truck crash, seek professional legal help to protect your rights to compensation.
Our Florida semi-truck accident lawyers at Aigen Injury Law have years of experience dealing with trucking insurance companies and their attorneys. Contact us for a free, confidential case review, where we can discuss your next legal steps.