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When a passenger car collides with a commercial truck, the outcome is often far more devastating than a typical car accident. Florida’s highways, like I-75 and I-4, are heavily trafficked by large trucks, making these accidents more common than you might think. But what makes truck accidents so much more dangerous? Let’s break it down.
1. Size and Weight Differences
A fully loaded semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, while the average car weighs about 3,000 to 4,000 pounds. This massive difference in size and weight means:
- More severe damage to smaller vehicles.
- Increased impact force, resulting in catastrophic injuries like spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, and internal trauma.
2. Longer Stopping Distances
Trucks need significantly more time and distance to stop. At 65 mph, a truck requires nearly twice the distance of a passenger car to come to a complete stop. If a truck driver isn’t paying attention or reacts too late, the results can be disastrous.
3. Limited Visibility and Blind Spots
Trucks have large blind spots—often called “No-Zones”—around the front, back, and sides. If a car lingers in these areas, the truck driver may not see it, leading to side-swipe or rear-end collisions.
4. Cargo-Related Hazards
Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo can shift during transit, causing the truck to jackknife or roll over. In some cases, hazardous materials are involved, which can result in fires, toxic spills, or explosions.
5. Driver Fatigue and Strict Deadlines
Truck drivers often work long hours to meet delivery schedules. Even though federal regulations limit driving hours, some drivers push the limits, leading to fatigue and slower reaction times. Fatigued driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving.
This post was written by a professional at Kevin L. Sullivan II. Attorney Kevin L. Sullivan II is your Wesley Chapel motorcycle accident lawyer and the best personal injury attorney near you for LeavenLaw. Kevin is proud to serve Florida accident victims that have been injured in auto accidents, motorcycle accident, slip and falls or have suffered any other type of injury caused by negligence. Kevin offers a FREE no-obligation consultation to discuss your claim. There are NO upfront fees or costs and if he does not collect for you, you do not owe him anything.
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