Interstate 95 is one of the busiest highways in Florida, stretching from Miami to the Georgia state line. It serves as a critical transportation corridor for commercial trucks, connecting major ports and distribution centers with the rest of the country.
However, with heavy truck traffic comes a heightened risk of accidents. Large commercial trucks, weighing up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, pose a serious threat to other motorists when crashes occur.
Understanding the top causes of truck accidents on I-95 can help drivers stay alert and reduce their risk of being involved in a devastating crash.
Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations
Truck drivers operate under strict federal regulations limiting the number of hours they can drive without rest. However, hours of service violations remain a leading cause of truck accidents. Some truckers drive longer than allowed to meet tight deadlines, increasing their risk of drowsy driving.
Fatigue impairs reaction time, slows decision-making, and can even lead to drivers falling asleep behind the wheel.
How to Stay Safe:
- Stay alert when driving near large trucks, especially at night.
- Give truck drivers extra space in case they drift into another lane.
- Report erratic truck driving behavior to authorities if you suspect fatigue.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Speeding is a major factor in truck accidents on I-95, especially in high-traffic areas like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Jacksonville. Truck drivers on tight schedules may exceed speed limits to make deliveries on time.
However, large trucks require much more time and distance than passenger vehicles to come to a complete stop. Speeding also increases the severity of crashes, making fatalities more likely.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is not just a problem for passenger vehicle drivers. Truck drivers are also guilty of using their phones, adjusting their GPS, or eating while driving. Because trucks have larger blind spots and require more attention to maneuver safely, any moment of distraction can be dangerous.
Common truck driver distractions include:
- Texting or talking on the phone
- Looking at GPS devices
- Eating or drinking
- Adjusting the radio or in-cab controls
Poor Weather and Road Conditions
Florida’s frequent rainstorms and hurricanes create hazardous driving conditions, particularly on highways like I-95. Large trucks are more vulnerable to hydroplaning, jackknifing, and losing control on slick roads. Strong winds can also cause top-heavy trucks to overturn, especially in open areas or on bridges.
Safety Tips for Drivers:
- Reduce speed when driving in wet conditions.
- Increase following distance behind trucks in bad weather.
- Be cautious of sudden lane changes by truck drivers during heavy rain.
Blind Spot Accidents
Commercial trucks have large blind spots, also known as “No-Zones,” where smaller vehicles become invisible to the truck driver. These areas are located directly in front, behind, and along the sides of the truck. Accidents often happen when truck drivers change lanes without seeing a vehicle in their blind spot.
To avoid blind spot accidents:
- Stay out of a truck’s No-Zones whenever possible.
- If you can’t see the truck driver’s side mirror, they can’t see you.
- Avoid lingering beside a truck when passing; move quickly and safely.
Improper Truck Maintenance and Mechanical Failures
Trucking companies and drivers are responsible for maintaining their vehicles, but some fail to perform necessary brake checks, tire inspections, and engine maintenance. Mechanical failures, such as blown tires, brake malfunctions, or steering problems, can lead to catastrophic accidents on I-95.
Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo
Cargo that is improperly secured or overloaded can cause a truck to become unstable, leading to rollovers or lost cargo in the roadway. Overloaded trailers also put extra strain on brakes, increasing the risk of brake failure and loss of control.
Common cargo-related accidents include:
- Rollover crashes from an imbalanced load
- Cargo spills causing road hazards
- Jackknife accidents due to improper weight distribution
Driving Under the Influence
In spite of strict regulations, some drivers choose to operate their trucks while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Stimulants, such as amphetamines, are sometimes used to stay awake on long trips but can lead to impaired judgment, aggression, and reckless driving.
What to Do If You’re in a Truck Accident on I-95
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident on I-95, it’s important to act quickly to protect your rights and gather evidence for your claim.
Steps to take after a truck accident:
- Call 911 and seek immediate medical attention.
- Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and road conditions.
- Get contact information from the truck driver and witnesses.
- Do not speak with the trucking company’s insurance adjuster without legal representation.
- Contact an experienced Florida truck accident lawyer for guidance.
Get Legal Help from a Florida Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck accidents on I-95 can result in life-altering injuries and complex legal battles. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a truck driver’s negligence, you need an experienced Florida truck accident lawyer to fight for your rights.
At Neufeld & Kleinberg, PA, we specialize in holding trucking companies accountable and securing maximum compensation for accident victims. Call us today at (305) 690-0617 for a free consultation, and let us help you get the justice you deserve.
Note: This article is intended for informational purposes only. Our dedicated team compiles accident news reports using a variety of trusted external sources, such as local news outlets, official police reports, social media updates, and eyewitness statements regarding incidents in Florida. While we strive for accuracy, the facts in this post have not been independently verified by our writers. If you identify any inaccuracies, please contact Neufeld & Kleinfeld, PA, immediately, and we will promptly address any corrections. Posts can also be removed upon request.
Disclaimer: This post is not intended as a business solicitation. The information provided should not be interpreted as medical or legal advice. Additionally, the photo accompanying this post does not depict the accident scene described in this post.
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