Florida
Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has recently released the results of its Large Truck Crash Causation Study (LTCCS), which analyzes the causes of large truck accidents across the country. The study found that driver fatigue, distracted driving, and poor truck maintenance were among the leading causes of big truck accidents. Although the study was national in scope, the same issues are causing Miami Springs truck collisions.

The LTCCS study examined close to 1000 traffic accidents involving large trucks. According to the study, big truck accidents cause 5000 fatalities each year, and the nearly 500,000 semi truck collisions that take place in the US each year can be reduced through prevention.
According to the latest LTCCS study, the majority of big truck accidents examined are related to safety violations. Researchers of the study concluded that roughly 66% of commercial trucks have at least one documented violation. In many cases, the violation has to do with something significant, such as the braking system or the tires.

According to the LTCCS study, however, the biggest concern for motorists is driver fatigue. The study’s authors concluded that driver fatigue was the most common cause of larger truck accidents. In 2011, the FMCSA released new Hours-Of-Service which are intended to ensure that drivers get more rest. However, it is not yet known what impact the new rules will have on road safety. As well, as many experts have noted, Hours-Of-Service rules only apply to commercial truck drivers. Most motorists are not restricted by such rules and many Miami Springs car accidents may be occurring due to drivers of passenger vehicles who are too tired to drive safely. Miami Springs personal injury attorneys may pursue legal action against drivers of passenger vehicles who do not drive safely, but such drivers may still be causing a number of traffic accidents.

According to the LTCCS study, another major cause of truck accidents involving 18-wheelers, semis, and other large trucks is driver distraction. While a federal ban prevents commercial drivers from texting and driving, there are still many potential distractions in a truck cab. Drivers may easily be distracted by hands-free devices, PDAs, tablets, mp3 players, CB radios, laptops, and other devices. As mobile devices get smaller and more omnipresent, they can cause a greater distraction. Unfortunately, there is currently no practical way to ban the ever-growing number of distractions available to drivers.

Many Miami Springs personal injury attorneys and law enforcement professionals also point out that it is very hard to enforce existing no-texting laws for truck drivers. Mobile devices and cell phones can be kept in a driver’s lap, making it hard for law enforcement officers to catch drivers who are texting. In most cases, it is not until after a Miami Springs traffic accident that driver distraction is uncovered when police check phone and text message logs on a driver’s mobile device.

Of course, another key problem is that while commercial truck drivers are not allowed to text and drive, there is no texting ban in Florida for drivers of passenger cars. This means that local drivers can easily cause Miami Springs pedestrian accidents and truck accidents unless they willingly put mobile devices away when driving.

Continue reading "Could LTCCS Study Shed Light on Miami Springs Truck Accident Causes?" »

According to Florida authorities, this time of year is one of the deadliest on Florida streets, with accidents both on primary and secondary roads. Unfortunately, this can be one of the riskiest times of the year for a Miami truck collision or car accident. Florida even has one of the unfortunate distinctions of being one of the states with the highest numbers of fatal accidents over the holidays, although the Florida Highway Patrol no longer forecasts fatal accidents for this time of year.

Florida officials will be taking part in a number of initiatives to reduce Miami traffic accidents at this time of year. For example, law enforcement authorities will patrol secondary and primary roads more vigilantly through the New Year, looking for drunk drivers, stranded drivers, and speeding motorists. Florida Highway Patrol is taking part in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over program up to January 2 to curb Miami drunk driving accidents and DUIs across the state. Unfortunately, Miami car accidents caused by drunk driving continue to be a serious problem. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, 35% of fatal traffic accidents in Florida between Christmas and New Year’s of 2010 were alcohol-related.

Many police authorities will be monitoring the streets more vigilantly over the holidays, even reducing time at home with their own families in order to keep the streets safer. According to public safety authorities, there are several things that people can do to keep safe in Miami through the New Year holiday:

1) Have a designated driver. A designated driver can ensure that you get home safely and ensures that you will not need to return the next day after a night out in order to get your car.

2) Call a taxi. Many taxi companies are extra-busy at this time of year and are working hard to meet demand. Keep some extra money in your wallet as well as a list of local taxi companies so that you can get home safely.

3) Rely on public transit. Using public transit to get to and from holiday events reduces your risk of Miami car accidents and is healthier for the environment. It is also a less expensive alternative to a taxi.

4) Call friends or family. If you cannot drive because you are tired or have been drinking, call someone for help.

5) Finish texts and emails before starting your car. In addition to cracking down on drunk driving over the holidays, Florida authorities also want to crack down on distracted driving. While there is no texting ban in the state, commercial drivers are not permitted to text and drive. Authorities will enforce that law.

6) Report aggressive or drunk driving by calling *FHP (*347). Reporting dangerous driving ensures that police can respond appropriately – and potentially prevent a Miami traffic accident.

Continue reading "Florida Authorities Work Hard to Prevent Miami Truck Accidents and Car Accidents at This Time of Year" »

Commercial truck drivers are not allowed to text and drive or use cellphones while driving. However, the National Transportation Board is calling for a far more wide-spread ban – one that would ban all drivers in all states from using portable electronic devices in all but emergencies. The ban would include hands-free devices as well. While many people believe that such a ban would help prevent Miami car accident, there are also at least a few reasons why it would help prevent truck accidents as well:

1) Truck drivers are not the only ones who cause Miami truck accidents. In many cases, distracted drivers of passenger cars cause accidents because they are not paying attention to the road. By banning electronic devices for all motorists, there is a chance that there will be fewer distracted drivers overall, potentially decreasing Miami traffic accidents – including truck accidents.

2) Light truck drivers and non-commercial truck drivers are still allowed to text and drive in Florida – even though these drivers can still cause deadly accidents. In 2010, a driver in Missouri sent 11 texts in 11 minutes, causing a highway pileup that injured 38 people and killed two.

3) The problem is not going away. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood has said that the situation with distracted driving is getting worse, with about 50% of drivers between the ages of 21 and 24 admitting to texting or emailing which driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, one in about 1000 motorists at any given moment in 2010 was using a mobile device to surf the Internet, email, text, or engage in some other distracting activity. This represents a 50% increase in these activities compared to the last year.

4) Banning only some drivers from texting and driving is sending the wrong message. To send the message that texting and distracted driving is deadly, all motorists need to be banned from using mobile devices. Just banning commercial drivers makes it seem as though distracted driving is not allowed for commercial truck drivers, but is fine for everyone else.

5) The evidence of the danger is compelling. There is no longer any doubt that distracted driving kills. Studies by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and other experts and organizations attest to the dangers. Just as DUI was once legislated to prevent Miami drunk driving accidents and drunk driving accidents across the US, more needs to be done to prevent distracted driving accidents.

Of course, more needs to be done than just enacting laws. The NTSB has stressed that laws need to be enforced. Missouri already has a law which prevents drivers under the age of 21 from texting and driving, but in the 2010 Missouri accident, the 19-year-old driver continued to send texts and was not apprehended by anyone. Many authorities now automatically ask for texting and cellphone records to be preserved when they investigate an accident, so that they can determine whether distracted driving was a factor in an accident. However, more can be done to prevent distracted driving accidents in the first place.

Continue reading "Would a Universal Ban on Cellphone Use Prevent More Miami Truck Accidents?" »

Numerous studies have shown that distracted driving is a major cause of concern in terms of Miami car accidents and truck accidents. In fact, by federal law, commercial drivers are not allowed to text and drive. During this time of year, however, it seems as though there are many more serious Miami truck accidents featured in the news. More holiday traffic and more pressure are one reason for this alarming trend in Miami truck accidents, but distracted driving is another major culprit. While distracted driving is a problem all year long, it can be an especial problem during the holiday rush, when it seems that far too many of us are trying to do far too much at once.

The pressure to keep retailers stocked with holiday items is considerable, and many truckers face extra pressures in terms of deliveries at this time of year. There are more trucks on the roads, more deliveries to make, and tighter deadline pressures. Truck drivers may feel more pressure to keep driving and more pressure to check in often about deadlines and deliveries. This can tempt drivers to use their mobile devices while on the road – to save time and to keep in touch. In addition, truck drivers have their own holiday plans, just like anyone else, and may be trying to balance a heavier holiday workload along with personal obligations. Again, this can tempt drivers into trying to multitask.

In addition, temporary truck drivers may need to be hired at this time of year in order to meet holiday demand. Many retailers and businesses hire temporary workers – including temporary drivers – at this time of year. While any truck carriers hiring commercial drivers are supposed to ensure that they hire only qualified drivers, any business hiring a driver for a company van may face fewer distractions. A less experienced driver may feel overconfident in their ability to text and drive, and drivers who drive vans for a company may not even realize that they should not use their mobile devices while driving.

There are also more drivers on the roads in general at this time of year, and while commercial truck drivers are prohibited from texting and driver, the drivers of passenger vehicles do not face any similar ban in Florida. Even if truck drivers do everything right at this time of year – even with the added pressures they face – passenger car drivers may be driving distracted and may cause serious collisions with trucks.

All drivers need to be more alert at this time of year. That means putting away all distractions, including mobile devices, and driving safely. The Flaxman Law Group wants to ensure that all our readers have a safe and happy holiday, and we hope that none of our readers are affected by a Miami traffic accident.

Continue reading "Why Distracted Driving Can Lead to More Miami Truck Accidents at This Time of Year " »

There are many more Miami trucks out during the holidays than during most times of the year, as demand for deliveries and merchandise increases at this time of year. Unfortunately, it can mean that there are more Miami car accidents involving trucks at this time of year. If you wish to prevent Miami truck accidents and traffic accidents, there are a few things you can do:

1) Avoid distracted driving. Driving distracted is dangerous at any time of the year, but it can be especially dangerous during the holiday season, when there is more traffic on the roads and a greater risk of Miami traffic accidents. At this time of year, it is even more important to put your mobile devices away and give 100% of your attention to the roads and to driving.

2) Give yourself plenty of time. With the holiday rush upon us, it is common to feel somewhat harried and pressured to get plenty of errands done. However, rushing can make it more likely that you will make driving mistakes that could lead to a Miami traffic accident or truck accident. Rushing can also make it more likely that you will drive aggressively or tailgate in order to get to your destination on time. A better solution is to reduce the number of commitments where you can during this time of year and give yourself extra time to savor the holidays.

3) Give trucks extra room. There are more trucks on the road at this time of year and with more trucks and more rushing on the roadways, you will want to give commercial trucks plenty of room. Remember: if you cannot see the truck driver in the driver’s mirrors, you are too close and the truck driver cannot see you. As well, be sure to leave extra room in cases where a delivery truck may be stopping and starting often in order to drop off deliveries.

4) Use extra caution in parking lots. Parking lots are dangerous because pedestrians, trucks, and passenger vehicles are all sharing the same space. You need to be especially vigilant about trucks and pedestrians in parking lots. While parking lot accidents are usually low-speed accidents, they can be quite serious.

5) Get plenty of rest and only head out to run errands when you are well enough to do so. The holiday season coincides with the flu season, so it is not unusual to be lacking in sleep and feeling under the weather just when you are feeling pressure to run many holiday-related errands. Feeling groggy and ill, however, can increase your chances of getting into an accident. Put off errands until you feel better and more rested. If you take over the counter medication or any medication to deal with seasonal illness, make certain that the medicine will not make you drowsy or sleepy.

Continue reading "Preventing a Miami Truck Accident During the Holidays" »

If you have been holiday shopping this year, you have likely noticed that parking lots are extremely busy at this time of year. Unfortunately, parking lots can also be the site of many holiday Miami traffic accidents. Parking lots require pedestrians, trucks, and cars to share the same space and as more trucks, pedestrians and cars converge on parking lots at this time of year, accidents are more likely. You can reduce your risk of Miami pedestrian accidents, truck accidents, and traffic accidents in parking lots this year by following these safety tips:

1) Be aware where trucks park in your mall parking lot. They may park in a separate area behind stores in order to make deliveries. If this is the case, try to park away from the route that trucks would need to take to get to their delivery area. This will keep you safer as you drive to and from your space and walk to and from your car.

2) Give yourself plenty of time to do your shopping and errands. The less time you have, the more frantic you will be and the more rushed, which makes you more likely to make mistakes that could lead to a Miami car accident.

3) Don’t cut corners when driving through a parking lot. Treat parking lots just like roadways, with lanes of traffic. Do not drive across parking spaces, even if they are empty, to get to a far corner of the lot more quickly. You are sharing the parking lot with other vehicles as well as with children and pedestrians. Stick to those lanes where pedestrians and cars expect vehicles to be.

4) Don’t drive distracted. Although you are driving slowly through a parking lot, you need to be even more alert since other vehicles may pull out in front of you or pedestrians may emerge from in between parked cars. When driving through a shopping mall parking lot. Do not check your messages, text, make phone calls, or change your music. Keep your full attention on the road.

5) Be especially careful at entrances and exits. These are the areas where bottlenecks and accidents are more likely to occur, especially as shoppers and delivery trucks are anxious to get in and out of the parking area. Proceed slowly, make eye contact with other drivers, and yield right of way. When a truck is trying to enter to leave the parking lot, provide plenty of room and make sure that you are not following behind the truck too closely – if you cannot see the truck driver in the mirrors, he or she cannot see you.

6) Stay calm. Holiday stress can easily translate to road rage in a shopping parking lot, especially if someone cuts you off or takes a parking space you were trying to drive into. Do your best to stay calm and avoid engaging with stressed out drivers who may be suffering from road rage.

7) Be cautious when walking to and from your car. Make sure that drivers can see you, stick to pedestrian areas, and avoid emerging from in between parked cars. This is especially important if you are shopping at night or in darker conditions, where visibility is poor. In busy parking lots, Miami pedestrian accidents are a real concern.

Continue reading "Avoid a Parking Lot Miami Truck Accident This Holiday Season" »

According to the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), distracted driving resulted in more than 450 000 injuries and 5500 fatalities. The NHTSA has worked to reduce distracted driving on the nation’s streets and even helped to institute a ban on texting and driving for commercial truck drivers. However, distracted driving still continues to cause Miami car crashes and truck accidents.

There are many things that you can do to help reduce instances of distracted driving on the roads:

1) Raise awareness. Many people are not aware that simple tasks, such as eating or drinking or checking messages can be a hazardous distraction behind the wheel. Many drivers also think that driving with a hands-free device is safer, even though studies have shown that headsets are not significantly safer than hand-held devices. The NHTSA website devoted to distracted driving education (http://distraction.gov/content/get-involved/index.html) has a number of resources that can help you educate others about the dangers of distracted driving.

2) Don’t drive distracted yourself. Every time you take your eyes off the road or allow your mind to wander from the task of driving, your accident risk is 23 times higher than it would be if you were driving distraction-free. Even if the commercial truck drivers around you are following guidelines and driving distraction-free, you can still cause a serious Miami truck accident by driving distracted yourself. The NHTSA website has a pledge that you can sign with friends and family to vow not to drive distracted.

3) Get involved in changing laws. Although there are laws preventing commercial drivers across the US from texting and driving, not all states have similarly strict laws against distracted driving for drivers of passenger vehicles. Currently, 35 states ban texting and driving while nine states ban drivers from using handheld cell phones for talking, texting, or any other purposes. Currently, Florida is one of the states with no laws against texting and driving, despite efforts by advocacy groups who claim that distracted driving leads to many Miami traffic accidents and Florida accidents each year. Preemption laws in Florida make it difficult for localities to pass and enforce laws against distracted driving. However, you can write to your local representatives if you feel strongly about the issue, in order to encourage your representatives to seek solutions.

4) Encourage strict penalties for commercial drivers who do violate the no texting and driving rule. Unfortunately, while most commercial truck drivers do take the texting ban seriously, some Miami truck accidents each year are caused by drivers who violate the rule. If you feel strongly about this, you can write to your elected representatives to encourage harsher penalties for drivers who violate distracted driving laws.

Continue reading "Distracted Driving and Miami Truck Accidents: What You Can Do" »

Thanks to the efforts of advocacy groups, many Americans are now aware of the dangers of distracted driving. To help prevent Miami truck accidents, there are federal laws in place which prevent commercial drivers from texting and driving. However, Florida currently has no laws preventing other drivers from texting and driving. Distracted driving continues to be a major cause of Miami car collisions. According to the NHTSA, 16% of fatal car accidents across the country in 2009 involved distracted driving.

One problem with banning distracted driving and thus preventing more Miami traffic accidents is that distracted driving is hard to legislate. While the focus in recent years has been on distractions caused by texting, there are a number of things that truck drivers can do while driving that can be just as dangerous:

1) Using any mobile device. Using any mobile device can be a distraction, and the VTTI has found that using headsets or other hands-free devices is not significantly safer than using hand-held devices. In addition, police across the US have admitted that it is very difficult to catch drivers who text or talk while driving. Texting can be especially easy to hide, since drivers can keep their mobile device in their lap, where it will not be noticed by any drivers or police passing by. Even since the texting ban, a number of truck accidents have occurred because a driver was texting while driving.

2) Eating and drinking. Truck drivers routinely eat on the road, especially when they are trying to make a deadline. However, experts agree that eating and drinking are among the most dangerous things that drivers can do. Each year, many Miami car accidents and other traffic accidents occur when drivers are distracted by spilled food and drink in the car. As well, opening food packaging can take the driver’s eyes off the road and hands off the wheel for seconds at a time – more than enough time to cause a Miami pedestrian accident.

3) Grooming. Checking hair or other grooming tasks dangerously remove the driver’s eyes off the road. Again, however, this behavior is very difficult to legislate, especially as legislating something like this could be seen to infringe on personal rights.

4) Reading maps and using navigation systems. In many cases, truck drivers need to make deliveries in areas that are unfamiliar to them. As a result, many drivers rely on navigation systems or, less often, on maps, to get them to their destinations. Unfortunately, these tasks take the driver’s eyes off the road.

5) Entertainment. Perhaps one of the most distracting things that drivers do is also the most difficult to legislate. Truck drivers spend many weary hours on the road and most rely on some form of entertainment – such as audio books, radio stations, or music – to make the time go by. Unfortunately, focusing on this entertainment can distract the driver. As well, changing stations, adjusting music, or otherwise changing the entertainment can cause an accident.

Continue reading "Distracted Driving, Miami Truck Accidents, and Legislation" »

In 2006 and 2007, Miami was named by AutoVantage as the city suffering from the worst road rage in the country. Road rage can lead to aggressive driving and can contribute to Miami car accidents and truck accidents as well. Anyone who has seen an incident of road rage on the road knows that this type of rage is more than just someone's bad day. A trucker driving an 80,000 pound fully loaded commercial vehicle can cause a serious accident if they are making reckless decisions or poor choices due to road rage. Road rage leads to aggressive driving and contributes to Miami pedestrian accidents and car accidents.

According to experts, impatient drivers often become enraged drivers. Emotional driving can also lead to road rage, especially if a motorist is driving while stressed, angry, or upset. Lack of patience is one of the leading reasons for road rage, as impatient drivers often lose their temper due to simple traffic delays, congestion, and other unavoidable problems. Unfortunately, truck drivers need to work hard to stay patient. Many of them have tight deadlines to make and often feel frustrated if they are stuck in traffic or otherwise unable to do their jobs. Experts also suggest that driving while emotionally upset can lead to road rage. Having a bad day and then getting into the car can mean that simple traffic problems escalate into a serious situation. Most experts suggest driving only when you are calm, well rested, and prepared for the road.

Road rage can manifest itself in all kinds of ways. It can include gesturing, yelling, or swearing at another driver. It can include tailgating and other reckless driving behaviors. Gesturing, swearing, and yelling can distract other drivers and lead to a Miami bicycle accident or other traffic accidents. Reckless driving can be especially dangerous, particularly when it involves large trucks. Tailgating, cutting off trucks, and otherwise driving erratically can easily lead to a serious accident.

Road rage can be an especial problem when cars and trucks share the roadways. A passenger vehicle has little or no chance against a fully loaded commercial vehicle which weighs many times what the car weighs. Any accident between a passenger vehicle and a truck is likely to result in fatalities or permanent injury. Since preventing road rage can help prevent accidents, AutoVantage has several suggestions for preventing road rage:

1) Slow down. Driving more slowly and avoiding speeding helps ensure calm driving. Speeding tends to annoy other drivers and can lead to nasty confrontations. Slowing down overall can also help reduce the stress that often leads to road rage. That is, giving yourself plenty of time to get to your destination ensures that you are not rushing and upset if there are any delays.

2) Stay alert and careful. Although Florida has no texting bans for drivers, staying alert and driving cautiously are your best defenses against road rage. Staying alert ensures that you are not cutting off other drivers and causing dangerous situations or upset on the road. Staying alert also reduces your risk of causing a Miami traffic accident.

3) Stay courteous and think of other drivers. When sharing the road with others, consider how other drivers feel. Give them plenty of room, don't cut people off, and signal as a courtesy so that other drivers know what to expect from you.

4) Take a deep breath and gauge your emotions. Avoid driving when you are upset, and try to calm yourself before getting behind the wheel. Driving upset ensures that any small problem on the road leads to even greater upset and potentially road rage.

Continue reading "Miami Road Rage Can Lead to Truck Accidents " »

Truck carriers do not permit commercial truck drivers to text and drive or use cell phones while driving. In fact, federal rules place many restrictions on commercial truck drivers in a bid to reduce serious truck accidents. However, commercial truck drivers are still generally allowed to use hands-free devices. In fact, many drivers rely on these devices as a communication device while on the road. Hands-free devices help them contact their carrier and even call for help when needed. However, a new study finds that hands-free devices may not be useful in helping to prevent Florida car accidents and truck accidents after all.

According to a new study by the Governors Highway Safety Association, there is no firm evidence to show that hands-free cell phones are safer to use when driving than hand-held devices. The study examined hundreds of research studies and reports concerning distracted driving. The researchers found evidence that cell phone use increases the risk of a collision, but could find no evidence that hands-free devices are safer. Researchers did find that 15-25 percent of all traffic accidents were caused by cell phone use.

According to researchers, part of the problem is that drivers must still dial the phone or look at the phone in order to dial a number. According to some commercial driving research, the dialing of a number is considered a high-risk activity while driving, and hands-free devices do not necessarily remove this risk.

Some experts have also hypothesized that hands-free devices do not remove the emotional distraction of mobile devices. That is, a driver engaged in a phone conversation is necessarily distracted because he or she is not thinking about just driving. However, no firm research has been done about the effects of this specific type of emotional distraction.

Currently, cell phone carriers in the US do not release data about whether people use their phones or are dialing at the time of an accident. This makes it harder for researchers to determine exact causes of accidents. As well, in some cases, more than owe distracting factor may contribute to a Florida truck accident or traffic accident, and in these cases it is hard to determine what role a mobile device played in the accident.

Even more troubling are studies by The Highway Loss Data Institute, which found that cell phone bans in four states did not reduce the number of accidents in those states. These studies call into question whether legislation alone can help reduce crashes.

Despite the many questions, the Governors Highway Safety Association recommends a ban of hands-free and hand-held phones for new drivers. According to the researchers, new drivers are at highest risk of accidents and this type of ban can help new drivers avoid added distractions during the learning period. At the same time, however, researchers admitted that they have not found any proof that cell phone bans for new drivers help prevent car accidents. About 30 states have this type of legislation, and none of these states found a drop in the number of new drivers involved in car accidents.

Continue reading "Hands-Free Devices and Florida Truck Accidents " »

Many states – including Nevada, recently – have bans prohibiting hand held cell phone use or texting while driving. No state has a blanket ban on mobile devices, so even the stricter states allow the use of hands-free mobile devices. In many cases, these devices have features which allow users to dial numbers and even send and receive text messages without taking their eyes off the road. The idea behind these devices is that they are safer because they do not require drivers to look down to check messages or dial a number, allowing drivers to keep their eyes on the road. Currently, Florida has no bans on cell phone use or texting while driving, even though a number of attempts have been made to pass this type of legislation.

While a number of experts and residents believe that Florida should follow the lead of other states and pass cell phone bans and texting bans for drivers, new studies by the Governors Highway Safety Association cast doubt on the idea that such bans could help reduce Florida car accidents and truck accidents. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, cell phone bans do not necessarily reduce the number of traffic collisions. While numerous studies – including the Governors Highway Safety Association research – show that distracted drivers are more at risk of accidents than non-distracted drivers, the new study does not show a clear correlation between the use of hands-free devices and lower car accident and truck accident rates.

The Governors Highway Safety Association research examines nine states that have instituted a cell phone ban. Researchers found that drivers are distracted by many things – up to half of their driving time. However, researchers in the study also found that drivers adapt to the use of the phone and pay more attention to the road. Another study, by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also found that states with hands-free and no texting legislation actually experienced an increase in the number of traffic crashes after their new legislation. According to experts, part of the problem is that after texting and cell phone bans, many drivers continue to take part in the risky behavior – but place their mobile devices in their lap so that they will not be caught and ticketed. With mobile devices in their laps, drivers spend more time with their eyes off the road – and are therefore more likely to cause a truck or car accident.

Currently, commercial truckers in Florida and across the US are prohibited from texting while driving. As well, truck drivers must adhere to a number of rules about hours of service and rest stops. Nevertheless, truck drivers are still sometimes involved in fatal Florida truck accidents because of texting and driving or cell phone use while driving. As well, while commercial trucks are banned from texting and driving, in Florida passenger vehicles are not subject to these same restrictions and drivers of these cars can and do cause serious traffic collisions.

Continue reading "Do Texting and Handheld Phone Bans Help Prevent Florida Truck Accidents?" »

Most Florida car accidents and truck accidents involve other vehicles, pedestrians, and inanimate objects such as telephone poles. However, in some cases, trucks and cars in Florida plow into homes. In many cases, these are Florida drunk driving accidents or accidents involving loss of control of the vehicle or a pedal error (such as when the driver mistakes the accelerator for the brake. Such an accident occurred in Cocoa, Florida in January and another took place in Palm Bay in May. Brevard County has in fact seen a few such accidents in 2011.

The results of these accidents can be devastating, especially when the vehicle involved is a truck. Due to the size and force of a truck, the truck can plow right into the house and tear down walls. Both the driver and the occupants of the home are likely to sustain serious injuries. There are many types of damages which typically occur in this type of Florida accident, including severe property damage and serious injuries. There are many reasons why such accidents result in such severe damages:

1) Many accidents involve high rates of speed. While there are no statistics concerning such crashes specifically, authorities have stated that such accidents occur fairly often and often do involve high speeds, since often the drivers are intoxicated or have hit the accelerator by mistake. The high speed causes the impact of the crash to be greater.

2) Walls are often torn down. In this type of accident, the sheer size and force of the vehicle is often enough to push down walls and barriers, crushing anyone behind the walls.

3) In many cases, there is structural damage to the home. This sort of collision can compromise the foundation or walls which are structurally important to the home. In some cases, the home cannot be salvaged or requires very extensive (and expensive) repairs.

4) The vehicle sustains serious damages. In many cases, the vehicle doing the damage is also seriously injured and the driver usually is killed or sustains serious injury.

5) The occupants of the home are typically not prepared. In a Florida car accident, victims may have only seconds to respond but may have at least a few seconds to try defensive driving. In a situation where a vehicle crashes into a home, there is typically no warning and occupants often have no time at all to get to safety.

6) There is a risk of fire. This type of collision can easily lead to a fire since the crash of the truck through walls can harm electrical wiring and gar lines and can also create sparks.

Continue reading "Florida Truck Accidents Involving Homes" »

Two recent truck accidents in Florida have made headlines and have highlighted some of the risks on Florida roads. In one incident, well-known professional wrestler Randy “Macho Man” Savage suffered a heart problem while driving his Jeep truck. His heart was on the accelerator when he lost consciousness due to ventricular fibrillation (VF) and lost control of his vehicle. His wife, who was a passenger in the car with him, steered the car away from the traffic and into a tree. Many experts believe that her actions helped prevent a more serious Florida car accident. Sadly, Randy “Macho Man” Savage passed away as a result of VF.

In the second incident, a 29-year old man in Florida caused a 5-car accident and $44,000 in damages when he dropped his cell phone in his car and bent down to pick it up. Since his eyes were not on the road, he did not notice when the cars in front of him stopped and he plowed his truck into four cars and then crossed lines of traffic before ending in a ditch. He was charged with careless driving.

That incident highlights the dangers of distracted driving – and shows that not all distracted driving is caused by texting while driving. Any activity that takes your eyes off the road is dangerous and can lead to charges filed against you. Even taking your eyes off the road for a few seconds can mean that you don’t have time to react to a stopped car or a pedestrian and can cause you to be in a Florida car accident.

Both accidents also show how quickly Florida truck accidents can happen. A sudden medical emergency or a moment's distraction cause thousands of Florida car accidents and truck accidents each year and each such accident can result in fatal injuries that can change families in tragic ways. While there may be no way to predict a medical emergency, there are ways to help prevent Florida truck accidents and car accidents.

For example, drivers can place possessions – including cell phones – safely in the glove compartment or the trunk. In the event of a collision, this prevents these objects from becoming airborne. Each year, victims in car accidents are seriously injured by flying objects inside a car, so the fewer items you have loose in your car the less likely you are to be injured and the less likely you are to be distracted. Turning off your mobile devices and putting them away entirely is also an important safety precaution. The temptation to just take a quick peek at your messages can be strong – and that one quick peek can result in a tragic accident.

Continue reading "Two Recent Florida Truck Accidents Show the Dangers of Driving" »

In the last few years, there has been more awareness about the dangers of distracted driving. In fact, new regulations have been passed over the past three years which make it illegal for commercial truck drivers and government employees on the job to text and drive. As well, victims who are injured in a Florida truck accident caused by a distracted driver can usually pursue the driver in court for negligence.

Despite this, however, distracted driving continues to cause Florida car accidents and truck accidents everywhere. These accidents continue to claim lives and cause hundreds of thousands of injuries each year. Part of the problem is that while steps are being taken to address texting and driving, the larger role of distracted driving is not being addressed.

The reality is that distracted driving is not just about texting. Distracted driving can occur every time that a truck driver removes his or her focus or eyes from the road. Distracted driving can happen when a truck driver is changing a CD, talking on a cell phone (even on a hands-free device), eating or drinking while driving, looking at a map, searching for something in the cab, and otherwise doing anything else but focusing completely on the road.

Unfortunately, it is impossible to legislate the long list of possible distractions available for truck drivers on the road. It is also impossible to enforce rules requiring truck drivers to remain focused on the road at all times. In fact, the very nature of the job makes long-term concentration difficult. Drivers spend all day, day after day, on the road, driving. Mainlining 100% concentration on the road during long stretches of time is very difficult.

Some industry experts have recommended that stricter rules be put in place against truck drivers who have accidents or "near misses" while distracted. They argue that once a truck driver has shown that he or she is prone to distracted driving, he or she should be taken off the road. Others argue for better education campaigns to teach all drivers about the dangers of distracted driving. Some industry experts also recommend adding devices into the cab of trucks – devices such as cameras – which would help investigators and carriers evaluate truck drivers' levels of performance and distraction.

Continue reading "Distracted Truck Driving Leads to Accidents in Florida " »

Rudeness is usually seen as a social fault, and certainly not as something potentially fatal. However, on the road, rudeness can actually cause dangerous situations which lead to Florida car accidents and truck accidents. Rude behavior that can be downright dangerous includes:

1) Cutting trucks off. Cutting off a commercial truck is rude to the truck driver – but it can also be deadly for the passenger car driver. Trucks take a longer time to stop than smaller vehicles, so a truck that is cut off may not have enough time to stop. When passing a truck, give yourself plenty of room before you cut back in. This is especially true if you are on an incline, where a larger and heavier truck will be picking up speed.

2) Road rage. Road rage is never polite – the screaming, swearing, and rude gestures are never appropriate. However, in a confrontation with a truck driver, such behavior can be downright deadly. Road rage can distract a truck driver, causing an accident. It can also distract you, causing you to make a deadly mistake.

3) Aggressive driving. Speeding, swerving, cutting other drivers off, and otherwise driving aggressively makes other drivers angry because it is rude. Driving aggressively around trucks, however, is dangerous because aggressive driving often involves erratic and impulsive maneuvers – maneuvers that truck drivers cannot anticipate in time.

4) Tailgating. Tailgating is always considered aggressive and rude. With a truck, it can lead to a car accident, since truck drivers cannot see directly behind them due to blind spots. If you are following too close to a truck, you likely cannot see the truck driver in the truck's mirrors, and that means that the truck driver cannot see you.

Continue reading "How Rudeness Can Lead to Florida Trucking Accidents" »

Statistics show that many truck accidents take place in rural areas, often on the weekends. Truck accidents cause nearly 5000 deaths across America each year, as well as billions of dollars in damage and many thousands of injuries. Accident reports state that the top reasons for truck accidents include:

1) Driver fatigue on the part of the truck driver. There are many regulations -- including hours of service regulations -- which ensure that truck drivers get adequate rest. Nevertheless, sleep apnea, illness, work pressures, tight deadlines, and a host of other reasons can cause a truck driver to be tired, and even to fall asleep at the wheel. While there's not a great deal you can do to ensure that truck drivers get adequate rest, you can ensure that you yourself get plenty of sleep and rest before you drive. Driving tired -- whether you drive a truck or a passenger vehicle -- is always dangerous. Another thing you can do to help prevent accidents caused by driver fatigue is to write to your representatives and support legislation which encourages long rest periods for truck drivers.

2) Drugs and alcohol. Many accident reports show that truck driver errors are often caused by drugs and alcohol. Florida drunk driving accidents -- whether they involve trucks or cars -- steal far too many lives each year. If you see a truck driver driving erratically, contact your local authorities to report the problem. As well, never get behind the wheel if you have been drinking yourself.

3) Failure to follow the rules and regulations of the roads. Both truck drivers and passenger car drivers are responsible for accidents when they fail to obey traffic laws. Whether it's speeding, obeying stop signs, or following proper rules for passing, merging, and turning, it's important to get excellent driver training and to follow the rules at all times.

4) Improperly loaded and secured loads on trucks. Truck loads can be heavy, and if they are not loaded correctly and secured, they can roll around on the truck, increasing the chances of rollovers and causing a weight imbalance which can cause drivers to lose control of the vehicle. While there's not a great deal you can do to ensure that carriers follow proper rules for loading and securing cargo, you can keep an eye on trucks on the road, avoiding any that seemed to be top-heavy or weaving.

5) Distracted driving. This is another problem for both truck drivers and passenger car drivers. Whether distracted driving is caused by changing a CD, using a mobile device while driving, or talking too animatedly with passengers, taking your eyes and mind off the road can be deadly. Commercial truck drivers are not permitted to use mobile devices while operating their vehicles. If you see any truck driver who's driving unsafely because they are using a mobile device, pull over and record them to your local authorities.

Continue reading "Top Causes of Truck Accidents – and How to Avoid Them " »

Many Florida truck accidents – and indeed many Florida car accidents -- are attributed to "driver error." In many cases, this general term simply means that a driver had no intention of harming anyone but has made a mistake which has resulted in an accident. Most experts agree that such accidents are highly preventable.

To prevent traffic accidents caused by driver error, it is important to first eliminate causes of error. Many factors can make a driver more prone to mistakes. For example, a driver who is taking cold or flu medication that results in drowsiness is more likely to make mistakes behind the wheel, even if the medication is not a controlled substance. If a driver is sleepy or ill, he or she is also more likely to cause a Florida car accident due to error. Similarly, a distracted driver can make mistakes simply because he or she is not alert enough to notice possible hazards. Eliminating drowsy driving, distracted driving, and driving while ill means that drivers who are well and alert are behind the wheel – and focused, healthy drivers are less likely to make mistakes.

Another way to eliminate driver mistakes is to improve and increase truck driver training. In many cases, driver error is caused simply by lack of experience on the part of the driver. Experienced drivers make fewer mistakes, typically, simply because they are more familiar with a wide range of driving experiences and know to respond appropriately. Truck driving training can mean that drivers have the skills to avoid potentially tragic mistakes. Truck training also means more truck driving experience. Drivers who take additional training are also enjoying more experience in controlled conditions – which means they are more prepared for the road.

Many driver mistakes can also be prevented by creating an environment of safety for drivers. That is, having reasonable work deadlines and sensible schedules ensures that drivers can care for themselves and can therefore be in better shape to avoid mistakes on the road. Carriers and the trucking industry can help create an environment of safety and prevent truck accidents by continuing to focus on safety and driver comfort.

Another way to prevent driver errors and the accidents they cause is to make it easy to focus and stay error-free. In many cases, drivers make mistakes because their minds and eyes are not 100% on the road. Drivers who are focused on the task at hand are less likely to make mistakes because they are not distracted. Banning texting and driving for drivers is an important first step. Carefully screening drivers to ensure that they can focus on one task for extended periods of time is another potential step to help prevent distracted driving and accidents.

Continue reading "Preventing Driving Error Can Help Prevent Truck Accidents" »

According to The Hartford Insurance Company, there are several signs that a driver may no longer be safe for the road. Recognizing and acting on these signs early may help prevent Florida truck accidents and Florida car accidents:

1) Signs of confusion. Stopping in traffic for no clear reason, confusing brake and gas pedals, getting lost in places that were once familiar, delayed response times, moving into the wrong lane and difficulty maintaining a position in a lane can all indicate a problem. According to the Hartford Insurance Company, these may be the signs that an elderly driver, especially, is struggling with the basics of road safety. They may indicate problems caused by dementia, stroke, and other problems that affect neurological function. Other symptoms of these problems include confusion at exits and increased agitation when driving.

2) Traffic accidents and violations. These can be a sign of vision problems, aggressive driving, fatigue, distracted driving, or other problems. However, ticketed moving violations or warnings, multiple Florida car accidents, running red lights or stop signs, and other reckless behavior is a clear sign that a driver should not be on the road. Multiple near-misses or violations, especially, are a sign of a more serious underlying problem. Luckily, this is one sign that is likely to be taken seriously by carriers because it affects truck companies' insurance costs.

3) Not noticing important things. Parking inappropriately can mean not noticing parking signs and cues. Hitting curbs or other objects, failure to notice other cars or activities or failure to notice traffic signs can all indicate a serious problem. A lack of ability to notice important driving cues can mean vision problems. distracted driving, or fatigued driving. In any event, leaving this problem unchecked is very likely to result in a Florida truck accident.

4) Poor judgment. Difficulty in making turns, difficulty anticipating potentially dangerous situations, difficulty estimating distances, and similar signs can mean that a driver's judgment is affected. This could be due to alcohol and drug use, distracted driving, fatigued driving, and a host of other problems. However, it is a serious problem. All drivers, and especially truck drivers, rely on their experience and judgment when operating a vehicle. With this judgment affected, accidents are very likely.

5) Aggressive driving. Speeding, lack of signally, frustration and yelling, honking at other cars, and a failure to follow rules of the road are all signs of aggressive driving. Aggressive driving can be caused by poor anger management, emotional problems, or even frustration at an underlying problem. Aggressive drivers take risks which can lead to serious accidents, however, and need to be taken off the road.

6) Low confidence in driving skills. Relying on a "copilot," driving slowly, riding the brakes, and driver anxiety can all point to a lack of confidence. While not as serious as aggressive driving, excessive cautiousness and lack of confidence can also lead to traffic accidents. In some cases, younger drivers or under-qualified drivers may experience low confidence. Additional training can often help resolve this issue.

Continue reading "Signs of Possible Driver Problems Which Can Lead to a Florida Truck Accident" »

Much has been written in the past year or two about mobile devices and Florida truck accidents and car accidents. Unlike many states, Florida does not currently have a law banning cell phone use or texting while driving – and experts believe that the omission may contribute to Florida car accidents and truck accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), texting and driving increases the risk of a collision by 300%. In 2008, more than 515,000 passengers and drivers were injured and another 5870 were killed nationwide in accidents caused by texting and driving. Yet, despite awareness campaigns, according to some experts half of all drivers under the age of 24 text behind the wheel.

Some have argued that any form of distraction can lead to traffic accidents. While this is true, texting and use of mobile devices is especially odious because it is so prevalent and because it provides the three levels of distraction which experts say is the most deadly:

1) Visual distraction. Visual distraction occurs when drivers take their eyes off the road in order to dial a number, find a cell phone, or read a text message. In the case of drivers operating a large commercial truck, even removing eyes from the road for a few seconds allows the truck to travel the length of a few football fields – more than enough space and time to cause a serious Florida pedestrian accident or car accident.

2) Cognitive distraction. Cognitive distraction involves taking one's mind off driving. Cognitive distraction is why many experts say that hands-free devices are simply not safe, either. When drivers become engaged in a phone conversation or in communications, they may not be thinking about driving and this can easily cause a collision.

3) Manual distraction. In order to text or dial a number, drivers must remove their hands from the wheel. For a truck driver, this can cause them to quickly lose control of the truck, which can swerve into traffic. Even hands-free devices can be a distraction in this sense if a driver drops the device and searches for it, taking their hands off the wheel.

Currently, there are laws in place to prevent drivers of commercial trucks from texting and driving. As well, many carriers prohibit their drivers from texting and driving. However, many drivers still continue to adopt this unsafe practice. Unfortunately, enforcing texting and driving bans is difficult. It is difficult for law enforcement to see whether a truck driver is holding a mobile device at the wheel. In many cases, texting and driving is only revealed in the investigation after an accident.

Continue reading "How Mobile Devices Lead to Florida Truck Accidents" »

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, there are many bad habits car drivers can adopt that can easily lead to Florida car accidents and truck accidents. Although truck drivers can also cause Florida truck accidents, in many cases mistakes by drivers of passenger vehicles cause serious accidents on the highways and roads. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, there are many things drivers of passenger vehicles can do to avoid an accident:

1) Wear a seatbelt. While a seatbelt will not prevent an accident, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration points out that if you are in an accident, a seatbelt is the best protect you have. A seatbelt will protect you by preventing you from being ejected from the car or hitting the steering wheel or windshield. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, in about 78% of truck accidents involving a car, there is a fatality involving a passenger or driver of the passenger vehicle involved. Wearing a seatbelt can reduce your risk.

2) Do not cut in front of trucks. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, this is the most common – and the most deadly – mistake passenger vehicle drivers make when sharing the road with trucks. The problem with cutting trucks off is that large vehicles such as trucks take much longer to stop than other vehicles. This means that if the truck driver must slam on the brakes, it is likely that a truck accident will happen. Always make sure that you can see the truck in the mirror before you attempt to enter the lane in front of a truck. Use your signal to ensure that the truck driver can see you are about to move into his or her lane.

3) Don’t coast in the blind spots. Truck drivers cannot clearly see vehicles driving directly in front, behind, or beside the truck. Unless you can see the truck’s mirrors, the driver likely cannot see you. Avoid staying in the blind spots – a truck could turn into you or back up into you.

4) Drive calmly and attentively. Aggressive and distracted drivers are dangerous to everyone on the road. Since truck drivers take longer to stop their vehicles, someone who is running red lights, making aggressive lane changes, or not paying attention can easily cause a Florida truck accident.

5) Do not get caught in a “squeeze.” A squeeze refers to a situation in which a passenger car gets stuck between the curb and a truck when a truck makes a wide right turn. In many cases, trucks need to swing wide to the left, especially on city streets, and may not see cars beside them or behind them. If you get stuck in a squeeze, you could be forced to drive up on the curb, causing a Florida pedestrian accident. In a worst-case scenario, you could be left with nowhere to go and could be crushed by the truck. Always give trucks extra room to turn.

Continue reading "The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Weighs in on Ways to Prevent Truck Accidents" »

While Florida has not banned texting and driving yet, the awareness about distracted driving is growing. Both anecdotal evidence and numerous research studies have shown it: texting or talking on the phone while driving can easily lead to Florida pedestrian accidents, truck accidents, and other traffic accidents. Using a mobile device while driving removes the driver’s eyes from the roads for dangerous periods of time, paving the way for an accident. While legislators continue to try to pass Florida laws that would ban texting while driving, some companies are coming up with innovative ways to halt distracted driving.

Florida company PhoneGuard has created new software which may help prevent Florida car accidents and truck accidents caused by distracted driving. The software, Drive Safe, makes it impossible for drivers to use PDAs, cell phones, and smartphones to text while driving. The software disables texting, keyboard functions, and emailing on mobile devices in any vehicles traveling over 16 kilometers per hour.

According to PhoneGuard, the software is especially useful for employers and parents who want to ban texting while driving for a specific person. For example, trucking companies can use the software to ensure that no drivers text and drive while on the job. As PhoneGuard notes, the software takes away the job of enforcing texting bans. Indeed, enforcement has been a key problem with text bans. While many workplaces and states already ban texting and driving, most admit that it is difficult to stop or notice such behaviors unless they lead to an accident.

The Drive Safe Software uses GPS to track the coordinates and the speed of a vehicle. When a driver starts traveling over 16KPH, the software automatically turns off texting options on phones. If the driver speeds, the software can even alert employees via text message. This feature may be especially handy for the trucking industry, which has had a problem with excessive driver speeds causing Florida trucking accidents. Another feature of the software is a “time out” feature which would allow employers to prevent employees from texting during specific times – such as work hours, for example. The software is tamper-proof, according to the company.

According to the US Department of Transportation and the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), almost 5000 car accidents in 2009 were linked to distracted driving caused by mobile device use. For this reason, texting as a distraction while driving has caused a great deal of concern. Even experienced truck drivers are far more likely to cause a Florida truck accident while texting and driving, simply because their eyes are not on the road.

Continue reading "Could New Software Help Prevent Florida Truck Accidents Caused by Distracted Driving?" »

Many states have now passed laws which ban texting and cell phone use while driving. Despite repeated efforts by legislators, Florida remains one of the few states that does not ban these dangerous driving behaviors, even though distracted driving has been linked to high instances of traffic accidents. However, public pressure has made texting or phoning while driving less socially acceptable. As well, a number of companies are stepping up to ban texting and driving among employees.

The Walt Disney Company, for example, banned its employees from texting and driving last November. Whenever an employee is on the clock, driving a Disney truck, or driving their own vehicle, that employee cannot text and drive. Employees caught violating the ban are subject to fines and may even be fired for non-compliance. Other Florida companies are expected to follow suit with similar bans.

In 2010, the trucking industry also placed a federal ban on texting and driving for all bus drivers and commercial truck drivers. Any truck driver or bus driver caught texting and driving anywhere in Florida or across the country may face criminal penalties and civil penalties. They are also liable to lose their jobs. Many trucking companies have also created strict rules against distracted driving for their truck drivers, above and beyond federal regulations.

According to the Strength in Numbers Fleet Benchmarking Study, trucking companies with strict distracted driving bans and severe penalties for non-compliance had lower rates of trucking accidents. Of the top eight trucking companies out of a total of 45 in the survey, six allowed a driver to be fired if caught texting and driving. The bottom 14 companies – the companies with the laxest rules and the highest accident rates – did not have such policies in place.

It is just common sense that companies are placing bans on distracted driving in Florida, even though there is no official ban in place in the state. Companies may be held liable in cases where a distracted driver causes a Florida pedestrian accident or traffic accident while driving and texting on company time. When a company institutes an internal ban, it is showing a commitment to preventing accidents. In the event of an accident, liability may rest more heavily with the truck driver if he or she violated a company ban.

Continue reading "Companies Work to Prevent Florida Truck Accidents Caused by Distracted Driving" »

Florida legislators have tried to pass legislation that would ban cell phone use and texting while driving for years but have been unsuccessful. While supporters of such legislation claim that texting and cell phone bans for drivers would help prevent Florida truck accidents and car accidents, others claim that texting and cell phone bans might actually increase traffic accidents.

While it seems counter-intuitive, given the media coverage about the dangers of texting, some experts note that many commercial truck drivers rely on cell phones to communicate while on the job. If a cell phone ban was in place, drivers would have to pull over frequently in order to contact their dispatcher or company, and these sudden stops could actually increase the number of Florida truck accidents. As well, if hand-held devices were banned, truckers and motorists would still likely be able to use hands-free phones, and there is no confirmation that such devices are not just as dangerous as regular mobile devices.

As well, opponents of texting bans point out that texting and cell phones are not the only distractions causing Florida truck accidents. In fact, many Florida car accidents and truck accidents caused by distracted driving are caused by a myriad of distractions. Drivers put on make up, change music, adjust GPS devices, chat with passengers, shave, change clothes, drink, sip coffee, and do many other things while driving. All of these behaviors are a distraction and are potentially risky. However, it is impossible to create individual legislation banning each of these possible distracting behaviors in cars or trucks. It’s just not feasible. Therefore, a texting ban alone might not help prevent Florida truck accidents and traffic accidents caused by distracted drivers, simply because many other types of distracted driving would remain.

Many opponents of the texting ban also note that enforcing the ban would be almost impossible and would stretch law enforcement resources even further. If a ban were in place, some experts predict, some drivers would simply keep their mobile devices in their lap while texting, making it hard for law enforcement to see who was breaking the law. In addition, keeping mobile devices on laps while texting might result in even more Florida truck accidents and car accidents, according to experts, as it would cause drivers to see the road even less.

Advocates of texting bans note that many Florida bus accidents, train accidents, car accidents, and truck accidents have been linked to cell phone use and texting specifically and that even if the legislation saved only some lives or prevented some injuries the law would be worth passing. Opponents note that every new technology – even the introduction of the radio in cars – has been greeted with similar concerns about safety until drivers simply got used to the new technology.

Continue reading "Could Texting and Cell Phone Bans Reduce or Increase Florida Truck Accidents?" »

While some states have passed laws which ban texting while driving, Florida has no such laws. It is not for lack of trying – in the past few years, Florida’s lawmakers have tried to pass such legislation eight time and have simply not been successful. So far, nineteen other states have laws which restrict or ban cell phone use or texting behind the wheel. There are good reasons for these laws. Numerous research studies have shown that using mobile devices while driving is a major source of distracted driving and accidents. Florida legislators have noted that texting bans might help prevent Florida truck accidents and car accidents caused by distracted driving.

Although Florida so far does not have any texting while driving bans in place, Florida law enforcement authorities can issue tickets and citations to texting drivers if the drivers engage in risky behaviors as a result of texting. For example, if a driver is driving recklessly because he or she is texting, the driver can be cited for reckless driving. Distracted Florida drivers often run stop signs or lights or make other mistakes because they are texting rather than focusing on the road. Obviously, such infractions will result in tickets, so texting while driving can still result in tickets in Florida.

According to the Highway Patrol, Florida drivers engage in other distracting behaviors while driving – which can just as easily lead to a Florida car accident or truck accident. Eating, adjusting the radio, shaving, applying makeup, drinking, adjusting the GPS, and chatting with passengers are all distracting behaviors which can lead to Florida truck accidents and traffic accidents.

Police authorities and law enforcement in Florida are warning drivers not to text and drive, even though there is currently no legislation specifically prohibiting the behavior. Many law enforcement agencies point out that driving is dangerous, even though it may feel familiar and safe. All motorists need to use common sense and put their full attention on the road to prevent Florida truck accidents and car accidents, warn law enforcement agencies.

Authorities note that legislators cannot pass laws prohibiting every specific sort of distracting behavior which can be dangerous on the road, so it is up to drivers to exercise common sense in order to help prevent Florida truck accidents and car accidents. If motorists need to talk on cell phones while driving, law enforcement authorities note, it is best to use a hands-free cell phone model which allows motorists to keep both hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road.

Continue reading "Authorities Ask for Common Sense to Help Prevent Florida Truck Accidents and Car Accidents " »

Much has been written about truck drivers and motorists who cause Florida car accidents and truck accidents due to the choices they make. For example, Florida drunk driving accidents are so difficult to cope with because they are so preventable – one person’s decision to drive under the influence leads to this type of accident, which can affect many lives. However, in some cases, Florida truck accidents and car accidents are caused by medical conditions. A motorists or truck driver may unknowingly have a condition which causes severe symptoms which can affect driving ability. Common conditions which can lead to Florida car accidents and truck accidents include:

1) Strokes. Strokes can occur at any time, but when they occur behind the wheel of a car or truck, they can result in a serious in a serious truck accident. A patient who has had a stroke usually suffers from problems with mobility and memory, which can also severely impair driving ability. Visiting a doctor often and looking for risk factors – such as high blood pressure – can help prevent strokes.

2) Cardiac illness. Cardiac illness can include everything from irregular heart beats to genetic defects to heart attacks and heart failure. When a cardiac event occurs on the road, an accident is almost guaranteed as the victim quickly loses consciousness. Patients with heart problems need to be evaluated by a physician to determine their fitness to drive.

3) Diabetes. Type 2 diabetes can strike at any time, especially in patients who are obese. Diabetes and problems with blood sugar can cause many serious and dangerous symptoms, including dizziness, weakness, and loss of consciousness. Drivers who have diabetes must carefully manage their conditions to avoid accidents and patients who are at risk of diabetes need to be tested frequently to ensure that they do not develop the disease without realizing it.

4) Sleep disorders. Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea are responsible for many Florida truck accidents and car accidents. When drivers have sleep disorders they are often unaware of the problem. They may feel more tired than usual, but they often do not see this as a symptom. Unfortunately, sleep disorders ensure inadequate sleep, which means that drivers with these conditions are more likely to fall asleep at the wheel and cause a Florida truck accident or car accident. Any sudden fatigue should be investigated promptly by a physician to rule out an illness.

Continue reading "Health Conditions Can Mean Florida Truck Accident Risks" »

In 2008, Russell Hurd’s daughter, Heather, was killed in a Florida car accident involving a truck when a truck ran a red light and collided with eight passenger vehicles. The truck driver was distracted by text messaging when the accident took place. Since then, Hurd has been trying to ensure that laws are passed banning drivers from talking on their cell phones or texting while driving.

Earlier this year, bills which would have banned text messaging and cell phone use in cars and trucks in Florida were killed in committees. Hurd has another opportunity this upcoming Tuesday, when a summit on distracted driving will be held by U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood in Washington. Hurd and others hope to convince lawmakers at the summit to change the laws to help prevent Florida truck accidents and car accidents involving distracted drivers.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 20% of all accidents in 2008 were caused by distracted driving. That same year, there were 6,000 fatalities due to distracted driving. Drivers who are distracted are four times more likely to be in an accident than drivers who are not distracted.

Although texting and cell phone use have been targeted as a culprit in distracted driving, distracted driving can include driving while performing any other activity. Some Florida car accidents and truck accidents caused by distracted driving were the result of a driver changing music, adjusting the stereo, searching for a dropped item on the floor, reading, shaving, eating, drinking, talking to passengers, and many other activities. Any activity that distracts a driver from the road is potentially deadly.

For truck drivers, the risks are especially high. In many cases, trucks are on highways, driving at high speeds. The size and force of a truck is immense and trucks take longer than passenger vehicles to stop. When a driver is distracted, there is often no way for the truck driver to avert an accident. There is simply no way to stop the truck in time and the force of the truck pushes the truck forward.

Of course, Florida trucking accidents involving distracted drivers are especially tragic because they are often so preventable and so tragic. When a truck runs a red light or loses control because the driver is distracted, the truck has the potential to hit or even roll over many cars, causing multiple injuries and fatalities. For example, in the accident involving Heather Hurd, eight cars were damaged by the truck. Two fatalities and several injuries resulted.

One problem with Hurd’s quest is the fact that the definition of distracted driving is so broad. In fact, this is what caused the bills in Florida to fail to pass. Lawmakers question how many activities should be or could be banned under legislation, and experts agree that it is a problem. If a law were to ban cell phone use but still allow eating while driving, that would not reduce the instances of distracted driving.

Although there are many regulations at the state and federal levels regulating truck drivers, truck companies, and the truck industry, car drivers still have an obligation to help prevent Florida car accidents involving trucks. Florida trucking accidents involving cars are often especially tragic for passenger vehicles and their occupants, simply because of the disadvantageous difference in size between a truck and a car. There are many things that Florida car drivers can do, however, in order to help prevent tragedy:

1) Stay alert. Avoid a Florida drunk driving accident as well as trucking accidents and other types of traffic accidents by driving sober. Even one drink can impair your judgment. In addition to drinking, carefully consider any medications – including over-the-counter medications – that you may be taking. These may also cause you to become drowsy and unfit to operate a vehicle.

2) Stay focused. Distracted driving is a major contribution factor to Florida truck accidents and traffic accidents of all types. Avoid using your cell phone, mobile device, or headphones while driving. Focus on the road rather than on conversations or on entertainment.

3) Never cut off a truck. Trucks cannot brake in the same manner as cars do. Even with emergency brakes, large tractor trailers and 18 wheeler trucks take far longer than cars to stop. If you cut off a truck, even a very experienced truck driver may not be able to stop in time, and you could find yourself in a tragic accident. If you need to pass a truck, wait until you can see the front of the truck through your rearview mirror before you change lanes. This gives you enough time to pass safely.

4) Be aware of truck blind spots. The only way you can be sure that a truck driver can see you is if you can see the truck driver and if you make eye contact with the driver. Trucks have very large blind spots along the rear of the truck and along the sides. This is especially true for larger 18 wheelers and tractor trailers. Avoid driving for long periods of time in a truck’s blind spots and be especially wary about driving between two large trucks.

5) In Florida cities, especially, be careful around trucks making wide right turns. In Florida cities with narrow streets, drivers of large commercial trucks often swing very wide to the left in order to make a right turn. While they are doing this, blind spots do not allow them to see passenger cars beside them or behind them. Pay attention when a truck signals to turn and make sure that you offer the truck plenty of room to complete the turn.

Now that awareness about the dangers of distracted driving is growing, Bluetooth and many other technology manufacturers are touting hands-free technology as the way to make cell phone calls and even texting safer. Devices designed for drivers read text messages and allow drivers to dictate messages – all while keeping their eyes on the road. While hands-free technology can help prevent a driver from taking their eyes off the road, however, there are many reasons why this technology is not necessarily safer or better at preventing Florida car accidents and truck accidents:

1) Hands-free technology does not help prevent a driver from being absorbed by a conversation. The problem with cell phone calls is not just that the driver has to dial a number. Rather, while a driver is talking on the phone, he or she becomes absorbed in a conversation or discussion, and this causes less focus on the road. This will not be prevented by hands-free phones.

2) Hands-free technology can affect what a driver hears. A truck driver using Bluetooth or other hands-free technology is often wearing a device that can affect their ability to hear. This can allow drivers to miss important auditory clues – which can easily lead to a Florida pedestrian accident or other terrific accident.

3) Bluetooth still means emotions. Drivers who are talking – whether hands-free or using a device – get emotionally charged while chatting. The link between strong emotion and distracted driving is well established. The more emotional a driver is, the less focused he or she is on the road. For a commercial truck driver, this means less control over a vehicle that could weigh 80 000 pounds or more.

4) Hands-free technology is often not hands-free. There are still buttons, wires, and devices to adjust. If a truck driver does not pull over to adjust settings, the result could still be a Florida truck accident.

While much has been reported in the media about the risks of distracted driving and the dangers of texting while driving, a study by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute suggests that truck drivers may need to pay attention more than drivers of passenger cars. If truck drivers want to prevent Florida truck accidents, they may need to put down their mobile devices. According to researchers at the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, the risk of texting behind the wheel is significantly higher for truck drivers than for drivers of passenger vehicles.

According to researchers at the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, truck drivers who text while driving are 23 times as likely as an undistracted driver to get into a car accident or truck accident. Car drivers are still more likely to get into a Florida car accident when they text, but their risk is not as high. As well, researchers found that when car drivers dial a cell phone, they are 2.8 times more likely to be in a traffic accident as undistracted drivers. Truck drivers, however, are 5.9 times as likely to be in a crash for the same activity.

Other risky distracted driver behaviors are also more risky for truck drivers than for drivers of passenger vehicles. For example, when a car driver reaches for an electronic device, they risk of being in a car accident is 1.4 times higher than the risk for an undistracted driver. Reaching for a device increases a truck driver’s risky by 6.7 times.

It’s easy to understand why distracted driving is risky. Most drivers need to focus on their cell phones or portable devices when dialing, texting, or talking. As well, most drivers look away from the road when using electronic devices. According to researchers, when drivers are distracted by an electronic device, they spend five out of six seconds not looking at the road. Many Florida pedestrian accidents and traffic accidents occur precisely because drivers do not see what is directly in front of them.

However, while it is easy to see why electronic devices are more dangerous for all drivers, why do truck drivers seem to have a disproportionate risk when using these devices on the road? Experts have many theories. One theory is that trucks simply require more effort and skill to drive. As well, since trucks take longer than passenger vehicles to stop, it is possible that truck drivers who are distracted are simply less able to react in time to prevent an accident.

The Virginia Tech Transportation Institute study used videos of drivers taken between 2004 and 2007 to see how drivers reacted to driving when using cell phones. Researchers concluded that even when drivers use hands-free cell phones, they are increasing their risk of accidents. Researchers of the study recommended that all drivers avoid all electronic devices and gadgets when driving.