What Are Some Of The Different Types Of Truck Accidents In South Florida?

Traffic collisions occur every day around this nation and in all different types of ways. While most accidents are the result of driver error, negligence, or carelessness, there are some wrecks that are caused due to inclement weather, mechanical errors, or defective vehicles or tires. Whatever the reason for a truck crash in Florida, there are many different types of trucking accidents, such as those handled by a Sunrise truck accident lawyer, who can help determine liability, assess damages, and guide you through the legal process after a serious collision.

• Head-on collisions. In a head-on crash, both vehicles are traveling towards each other and collide. When one of the vehicles is a large semi truck, the results can be catastrophic and even fatal for those in a passenger vehicle. Among the most serious outcomes are traumatic brain injuries, which can lead to memory loss, impaired coordination, difficulty concentrating, and long-term changes in mood or personality. The effects of a brain injury often require ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and can permanently alter a person’s ability to work or maintain daily routines.
• Rear-end accidents. In a rear-end collision, a tractor-trailer collides into a car from the rear. This type of accident typically occurs from truck driver fatigue, distracted driving, reckless driving, or failure to brake in time. Due to the size of the truck and the heavy weight of the load, rear-end accidents can cause serious harm to those in the front car.
• Under-ride accidents. Similar to a rear-end crash, but this type of collision involves a smaller vehicle rear-ending a large truck. This type of crash can occur when a truck stops suddenly, causing the smaller car to slide under the large truck. Sadly, this type of collision is often fatal for those who hit the rear of the semi.
• Jackknife accidents. When a truck’s brakes lock up, it can pull a truck sideways causing it to jackknife. This causes the trailer to swing out wide to one side and turn into the cab of a truck at an angle. When this happens, the long trailer can hit other cars sharing the road with it.
• Rollover accidents. Trucks that take a curve too fast can roll over due to their high center of gravity. When this happens, an 18-wheeler can pin another vehicle beneath it, crushing the car and occupants inside. Causes of rollover accidents often include excessive speed, improperly loaded cargo, sudden steering maneuvers, and driving under the influence. Road conditions and driver fatigue also contribute to the likelihood of a rollover, making these incidents both dangerous and often preventable.
• Side impact or T-bone collisions. In this type of accident, another vehicle is broadsided by a large truck. This typically occurs when a red light is run or an improper lane change is made.
• Unbalanced load or overloaded truck crashes. When the load a truck is carrying is not secured properly or was not balanced right, a truck can lose its load or a driver can lose control of the truck and crash.
• Blind spot collisions. Because of a truck’s large size, truck drivers often have a hard time seeing smaller cars. When truck drivers don’t take their time before switching lanes, a truck may strike a vehicle that is driving in its blind spot.

Although you may have heard of these terms and different types of crashes that involve tractor-trailers, any type of trucking accident can be very serious. Typically, collisions involving cars and trucks are often severe, catastrophic, or deadly.

If you have been injured or your loved one was killed in a truck accident in South Florida, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses. The Law Office of David Benenfeld can help you seek justice and the compensation you deserve. Call for a free legal consultation and let us help you.