Truck Accidents

Jackknife Truck Accidents

Jul 19, 2019 | Category: Truck Accidents | By Erik Abrahamson

Being in an accident with a large truck is one of the scariest experiences a motorist can have. Over 4,000 people die in accidents with large trucks every year. Truck accidents in Florida are always serious, but one of the deadliest scenarios is a jackknife accident. Jackknife accidents can shut down highways and cause injuries to multiple motorists. What is a Jackknife Accident? A jackknife accident occurs when a large truck begins to lose control, and the trailer of the truck swings out to one side. The out-of-control truck then resembles a giant pocket knife folding in on itself. A jackknifed truck can block all lanes of traffic, and sometimes motorists can’t stop their vehicles in time to avoid a collision. What Causes Jackknife Accidents? A jackknife accident can result from a number of different causes, including: Improper brake adjustment and maintenance—if the brakes of a truck aren’t properly adjusted or maintained, they can lock up during heavy braking. The truck then drags the trailer with its locked brakes, and the trailer begins to swing around. Speeding—it takes an incredible amount of force to stop a large truck. The faster a truck is traveling, the more likely it is that a driver will have to slam on the brakes to come to a stop. This can lead to a braking imbalance which can cause the brakes to lock up. Sharp curves—drivers should know how to handle sharp curves on the road, but when they take improper evasive maneuvers, especially at high speed, the angle can cause the trailer to spin out. Slippery weather conditions—slippery roadways can cause a loss of traction, which can lead to the weight of a truck shifting. When this happens, both the cab and the trailer begin to slide, causing a jackknife effect. Driver fatigue and inexperience—driver fatigue slows reaction times and leads to impaired judgment. Unfortunately, trucking companies often encourage drivers to go over the allowed hours of service, which can lead to drowsiness. In addition, drivers who have not been properly trained on how to handle a large truck can also make mistakes that lead to a jackknife accident. Contact a Tampa Bay Truck Accident Attorney If you’ve been injured in an accident with a large truck, you may want an experienced Tampa truck accident attorney on your side. The attorneys at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk have over 30 years of experience helping accident victims. Contact us online or call us at 800-538-4878 to set up your free consultation today.

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Can the Truck Driver Shortage Affect Safety?

May 10, 2019 | Category: Truck Accidents | By Erik Abrahamson

According to the American Trucking Association, trucking companies are facing a shortage of approximately 60,000 drivers, a number which could go up to 100,000 over the next few years. The driver shortage has been attributed to a high number of baby boomers retiring, an increase in freight demand, and high driver turnover. Trucking companies have been trying to make the job more appealing, but the shortage remains. What does this truck driver shortage mean for other motorists on the road? DRIVE-Safe Act Proposed federal legislation has been introduced that would potentially increase the pool of driver candidates. The DRIVE-Safe Act aims to make it legal for drivers aged 18 years old and over to drive trucks in interstate commerce. This lowers the current minimum age of 21 years old. This can be dangerous to other motorists as younger drivers may have less experience on the road and are more likely to drive recklessly. Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among teens. Teens are more likely to be distracted and more likely to take risks on the road which can be especially dangerous if they are driving a large commercial truck.  Longer Hours on the Road With increased freight demand and fewer drivers, many drivers and trucking companies may be tempted to increase the number of hours trucks are on the road. While the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has hours of service regulations, trucking companies may try to find ways around these regulations. This could lead to an increase in driver fatigue. Overworked and tired drivers are extremely dangerous on the road. Inexperienced Drivers Behind the Wheel The shortage of drivers also means that some trucking companies may try to cut corners and put inexperienced drivers on the road as quickly as possible. With a smaller pool of drivers to choose from, companies may be tempted to hire less experienced drivers with questionable driving records. Trucking companies with high demand may feel pressured to put someone behind the wheel even if that person doesn’t have the necessary qualifications to operate a large commercial truck safely. This could have dangerous consequences as an inexperienced driver is more likely to cause an accident. Contact an Experienced Florida Personal Injury Attorney If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, you may need the help of an experienced personal injury attorney. At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we’ve been helping the injured for over 30 years. Contact us online or call us at 800-538-4878 to set up your free consultation today.

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Sleep Apnea and Truck Accidents: Should Companies Screen Drivers?

Mar 11, 2019 | Category: Truck Accidents | By Erik Abrahamson

University of Pennsylvania researchers found in a study sponsored by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA) that 28% of truck drivers have some form of sleep apnea. Sleep apnea can lead to drowsiness and fatigue which can be deadly for drivers of large trucks. Should trucking companies be screening their drivers for this condition before allowing them on the road? What is Sleep Apnea? Sleep apnea is a disorder where someone periodically stops breathing while they are sleeping. This disorder can lead to poor quality and interrupted sleep which often leaves individuals fatigued during the day. Sleep apnea can be a potentially life-threatening condition. As many as 1 in 5 adults suffer from some form of sleep apnea. Risks factors for sleep apnea include: Obesity A family history of sleep apnea Smoking and alcohol use Thick neck circumference Being male Being over 40 years old Nasal congestion caused by allergies or an anatomical issue Sleep apnea is typically treated with the use of a continuous positive airway pressure device (CPAP) which consists of a mask that the individual wears while sleeping that helps to improve breathing. Why is Sleep Apnea Dangerous for Truck Drivers? Sleep apnea affects the amount and quality of sleep a person gets. Therefore, it can have a detrimental effect on someone’s performance and alertness during the day. Truck drivers should be focused and alert at all times when driving their large vehicles. If they are impaired by a lack of quality sleep, they may not be alert enough to react quickly, stay focused on the road, or even to stay awake. This impairment can be deadly to other motorists on the road. FMSCA Rules FMSCA rules currently state that a driver should not be permitted to drive a truck if they have a medical condition that would prevent them from safely driving. If this person is properly treated for their condition and it is no longer a concern, they can begin driving. However, sleep apnea may not always be apparent to a medical doctor. Many drivers may not even be aware that they have this condition. Given the potentially deadly results of sleep apnea, trucking companies should require some type of screening for the condition for all drivers.  Contact an Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer If you’ve been injured in a truck accident near Tampa, it’s important to have an experienced truck accident lawyer on your side. At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we have over 30 years of experience helping injured Floridians. Contact us online or call us at 1-800-538-4878 to set up your free consultation today.

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Underride Collisions

Jan 30, 2019 | Category: Truck Accidents | By Erik Abrahamson

Underride collisions are one of the deadliest types of Florida truck accidents. An underride collision occurs when a smaller vehicle slides under a large tractor-trailer. These accidents are frequently fatal because the bottom of the truck may crush the top of the smaller vehicle on impact. Underride accidents aren’t limited to rear-end collisions. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, (IIHS) of underride crashes, 57% were found to have occurred with the front of the truck, 22% involved the rear, and 20% involved the side of the truck.   Causes of Underride Collisions Anytime a smaller vehicle slides and becomes wedged under the truck it is considered an underride collision. These accidents often occur as the result of: Poor visibility—night blindness or inclement weather can make a tractor-trailer hard to see. Improper reflective gear on the truck can contribute to an accident. Poor brake maintenance—defective brake lights on a truck can prevent a car driver from noticing when the truck stops or slows down and increases the risk of slamming into the truck Reckless or distracted driving—these factors can lead to truck and car drivers making poor decisions. Improper lane changes and following too closely can all contribute to underride collisions Improper underside guards—in many cases trucks are not equipped with adequate safety guards to prevent a car from becoming lodged underneath. Either the truck doesn’t have guards or the guards are not sturdy enough to prevent a car from getting under the truck. In addition, even the sturdiest guards aren’t enough to prevent an underride collision when the vehicles are moving at a high rate of speed. Prevention of Underride Collisions While careful and attentive driving by both the car drivers and the truck drivers are the most important way to prevent underride collisions, proper underside guards also play a significant role. Trucks operating in the United States are required to have rear underride guards. They are not, however, required to have guards on the side of the trucks. An IIHS test found that side and rear underride guards have significant safety benefits. A push has been made to require side underride guards, but despite the fact that 200 people are killed in side underride collisions every year, action has still not been taken.   Contact an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in an underride collision, you should have your case evaluated by an experienced personal injury attorney. Contact the experienced and trusted lawyers at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk online or call us at 1-800-538-4878 to schedule a free consultation today.

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Truck Accidents and Hazardous Materials

Jan 11, 2019 | Category: Truck Accidents | By Erik Abrahamson

Thousands of trucks containing hazardous materials are on the road in Florida on any given day. Depending on the type of hazardous materials being carried, collisions with these trucks can lead to explosions, fires, and even toxic chemical spills. This can result in serious and sometimes deadly injuries to the motorists involved. The industry is highly regulated by the government, and trucking companies who transport these materials are held to a greater safety standard. Federal Regulations The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA) defines hazardous materials as those materials that may pose an unreasonable threat to the health and safety of people and the environment. The FMSCA has broken down hazardous materials into nine categories. Gasses Explosives Flammable solid Flammable and combustible liquid Oxidizer and organic peroxide Toxic Poison Radioactive Corrosive Miscellaneous Federal regulations require that trucks transporting hazardous materials have a placard on the truck indicating the type of material being hauled. According to the FMSCA, properly categorizing the type of hazardous material is one of the most important responsibilities of the trucking company. Carriers must also be sure to thoroughly train employees on how to handle the hazardous materials, properly load and unload the materials, and ensure the materials are properly secured. In addition, drivers who transport hazardous materials must have a special HazMat designation on their commercial driver’s license (CDL). In order to obtain this designation, drivers are required to undergo a medical exam and a fingerprinted background check. Hazardous Material Trucking Accidents Despite the seriousness of transporting hazardous materials, some trucking companies and shippers can be careless when it comes to safety. For the fiscal year 2018, the FMSCA found over 43,000 violations in over 200,000 inspections. Violations and common causes of accidents include: Failure to properly secure materials—this increases the risk of hazardous materials shifting during transport which can lead to accidents and explosions. Driver error—things like driver distraction, driver fatigue, speeding, following too closely, and driving while impaired can all lead to severe accidents. Failure to properly train drivers and other employees—drivers who transport hazardous materials should receive specialized training, as should any employees who load and unload the cargo. Failure to properly maintain and inspect trucks—trucks that aren’t properly maintained can cause accidents or lead to leakage of hazardous materials. Trucks should be inspected on a regular basis and in accordance with FMSCA regulations. Contact a Trusted Attorney If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, you should consult with an experienced personal injury law firm near you. Contact the trusted lawyers at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk online or call us at 1-800-538-4878 to schedule your free consultation.

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Truck Safety Features May Prevent Accidents

Jan 7, 2019 | Category: Truck Accidents | By Erik Abrahamson

Large commercial trucks are an important part of our economy, but they are also the source of destructive and deadly accidents. In 2016, 4,564 people were killed in crashes involving large trucks or buses. Florida is among the top 10 states for most fatal large truck crashes. A number of factors can lead to truck crashes, including impaired driving, distracted driving, speeding, following too closely, truck maintenance failure, and driver fatigue. But there are a number of truck safety features that are currently on the market that may play a role in significantly reducing the number of truck accidents. According to a AAA Foundation study, truck safety technology can prevent up to 63,000 crashes per year. The technology reviewed by the AAA Foundation included: Lane Departure Warning Systems that warn a driver when the truck is drifting out of its lane can prevent a significant number of crashes. Based on lane line markings, lane departure warning systems provide drivers with a visual or audible warning when they begin crossing into another lane. According to the AAA Foundation, the use of lane departure warning systems in commercial trucks can prevent 6,372 crashes and potentially 115 deaths annually. Video-based Onboard Safety Monitoring Systems Video-based onboard safety monitoring systems use cameras and other sensors inside the truck to monitor a driver’s behavior and performance while driving. These systems help the driver’s employer to provide feedback on the driver’s performance. Use of the system can hold drivers accountable and lead to safer driving behavior. The AAA Foundation estimates that the use of these systems can prevent up to 63,000 accidents per year and 293 deaths. Automatic Emergency Braking Systems Automatic emergency braking systems combine forward-looking sensors, driver alerts, and automatic vehicle braking to prevent rear-end collisions. Sensors detect a vehicle within a preset distance and alert the driver. If the driver does not react, the automatic braking system will engage and stop the truck to prevent or mitigate a crash. The AAA Foundation found that these systems could prevent 5,294 crashes and 55 deaths annually. Air Disc Brakes Air disc brakes provide maintenance and performance advantages relative to traditional drum brakes. Compared to drum brakes, air disc brakes can reduce stopping distance by 40%. According to the AAA Foundation, the use of air disc brakes could prevent 2,411 crashes and 37 deaths annually. While federal regulations do not currently require the use of these safety features, it is clear that they will save lives. Contact a Trusted Attorney If you’ve been injured in an accident with a large truck, you should consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. Contact the trusted lawyers at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk online or call us at 1-800-538-4878 to schedule your free consultation.

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Black Box Data in Truck Accidents

Dec 26, 2018 | Category: Truck Accidents | By Erik Abrahamson

Every year there are thousands of people killed in accidents with large commercial trucks. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 3,986 people died in large truck crashes in the year 2016 alone. When seeking compensation for an injury or a death sustained in a Florida truck accident, it can be crucial to establish what the truck driver was doing at the time of, and immediately before, an accident. A truck’s “black box” can be an important piece of evidence that contains much of this data. What is a truck’s black box? An electronic control module (EDM), also known as a black box, is very similar to the black boxes found on airplanes.  These devices can record information about what occurred right before or during a truck accident. ECM technology has advanced, and now black boxes are able to record a great deal of data about what is happening with the truck. The ECM records important information, including: Whether a driver was wearing a seatbelt The truck’s GPS location at the time of the accident How long the truck was in service Tire pressure Average speed of the truck Highest speed Number of hard stops taken by the truck Whether the driver braked before impact How does a black box or EDM help reconstruct the accident? An EDM can provide some important information about what the driver may have been doing right before an accident. For example, if the driver did not use the brakes right before impact, it may be possible that he was sleeping, impaired, or simply distracted and not keeping his eyes on the road. Information about a truck’s speed can demonstrate that the driver was driving at a reckless speed at the time of the accident. The EDM can also display information that may not be so obvious. For example, if the EDM shows that a vehicle was in service for an excessive amount of time, it may demonstrate that the driver was driving longer than the allowable number of hours. In that case, it could be a trucking company who was responsible for overworking the driver. Obtaining Black Box Data An EDM is installed on a truck by the manufacturer of the truck and is the property of the owner. An at-fault truck owner may attempt to remove the black box,or remove the data from the device to conceal any non-compliance with federal and state regulations. That’s why if you’ve been in an accident with a truck, it is crucial that you consult with an attorney quickly so that this information, if necessary, can be obtained as soon as possible. Contact a Trusted Attorney If you’ve been injured in a commercial truck accident, you should consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. Contact the trusted lawyers at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk online or call us at 1-800-538-4878 to schedule your free consultation.

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Finding a Trucking Company Liable for an Accident

Nov 6, 2018 | Category: Truck Accidents | By Erik Abrahamson

When you are seriously injured in an accident with a commercial truck, the issue of who is at fault can be more complex than in a typical auto accident. There are multiple parties involved, including the driver of the truck, the owner, the manufacturer, and the company for which the driver worked. Federal laws and regulations govern much of the trucking industry and establish standards that these trucking companies, owners, and the driver must meet. These laws and regulations can help to determine who is responsible in an accident. Trucking Companies May Attempt to Avoid Liability One of the most important parties in an accident may be the trucking company for which the driver worked. Trucking companies may sometimes attempt to avoid liability by labeling the drivers that work for them as independent contractors and not employees. They also may attempt to avoid liability by not owning, but leasing, the truck from the owner/operator. The trucking company may then claim that it is not responsible for an accident because the driver is not their employee and it does not own the truck that was involved. Federal laws and regulations have now put an end to these arguments. Now a company that owns a trucking permit can be held responsible for accidents involving any truck that has its placard or its name displayed somewhere on the vehicle. Examples Where a Trucking Company May be Liable While there are some clear situations where a driver is at fault for an accident, it is not always as clear when a trucking company may be responsible, at least in part. Common scenarios that arise include: Trucking company put pressure on the driver to drive over the allowable hours without the required amount of rest. Trucking company failed to provide the driver with proper training. Driver of the truck did not have the proper licensing or did not have a clean driving record. Trucking company was negligent in enforcing rules regarding safety. Trucking company did not ensure that the vehicle was properly maintained. Any of the above situations can lead to a trucking company being found liable an accident. Proving the Liability of a Trucking Company Because determining liability in a truck accident can be complicated, it often becomes necessary to hire certain professionals to help put together the case. A professional accident reconstructionist or an accident investigator can assist in putting the pieces of the accident together. An experienced personal injury attorney will make sure that you have the right people working on your claim. In addition, information such as trucking logs, drug screening records, maintenance reports, eyewitness reports, and recordings from any truck cameras or black boxes can help provide useful evidence of what happened and who is at fault. Contact a Trusted Attorney If you’ve been seriously injured in a truck accident, you should have an experienced Tampa-area truck accident attorney evaluate your case. Contact the trusted lawyers at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk online or call us at 1-800-538-4878 to schedule your free consultation.

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Truck Maintenance Violations

Nov 1, 2018 | Category: Truck Accidents | By Erik Abrahamson

When you hear about a truck accident in Florida, you may think that the accident was caused by driver error. However, it is just as likely that a truck accident was the result of a defective part on the truck that should have been found if the truck was properly maintained. Truck inspections, maintenance, and repairs are so essential that federal regulations mandate them. However, many trucking companies and truck drivers fail to follow these federal rules. This can result in tragic accidents that may involve serious injury or death. Federal Regulations Regarding Truck Maintenance The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration(FMCSA) has detailed regulations regarding truck inspections, maintenance, and repairs that drivers and trucking companies must abide by. It is required that all truck drivers and trucking companies be familiar with these regulations. These regulations require drivers and companies to: “systematically inspect, repair, and maintain, or cause to be systematically inspected, repaired, and maintained” all trucks within their control. This regulation is put in place to ensure that all parts and components of the truck are in good working order and safe for driving. Ensure that no truck is put on the road if it is in a condition that is likely to cause the breakdown of a truck or an accident Ensure that any truck that is in a condition that will likely cause an accident, or a breakdown of the truck be marked “out of service” and not operate trucks with an “out of service” sticker on them until all repairs have been completed Perform pre-trip inspections to ensure that trucks are in a safe condition and that loads are secured Complete an inspection of each truck at the end of every work day and prepare written reports documenting any defect or deficiency in the truck Trucking companies are required to keep detailed records regarding any truck that it owns, leases, or operates. What is Required to be Inspected FMCSA regulations mandate what the truck driver is required to inspect on a daily basis. This includes: Brakes Steering mechanism Reflectors and light Mirrors Horns Tires Wheels and rims Windshield wipers Coupling equipment Emergency equipment What Can Go Wrong If a truck is not adequately maintained or inspected, problems with the truck can lead to a severe accident. Improper maintenance and lack of inspection can lead to: Problems with the brake system Problems with headlights and brake lights Worn tires Faulty turn signals Any of these issues can lead to a serious accident. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, you should have an attorney evaluate your case. Contact the trusted lawyers at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk onlineor call us at 1-800-538-4878 to schedule your free consultation.

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Driver Fatigue and Truck Accidents

Oct 9, 2018 | Category: Truck Accidents | By Erik Abrahamson

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), driver fatigue is a major cause of truck accidents. Driver fatigue can lead to drivers falling asleep at the wheel or taking unnecessary risks while they drive and can often lead to accidents. Fatigue can be caused by trucking companies having unrealistic expectations and schedules that call on drivers to hurry despite the risks involved. FMCSA Regulations The FMCSA limits the number of hours that drivers of large trucks and tractor trailers are allowed to drive in any given day. Drivers may only drive for 11 hours after having 10 consecutive hours of being off duty. This 11 hours of driving must take place during the 14 consecutive hours after a 10-hour break. For example, if a driver begins driving at 6 a.m., he must complete his 11 hours of driving before 8 p.m. that night which is when his next 10 hours of off-duty time should begin. FMSCA also requires that drivers take a 30-minute break after every 8 consecutive hours of driving. Drivers are also limited to drive 60/70 hours in a 7/8 day period. This is the weekly limit and depends on the type of schedule the driver works. Truck drivers are required to keep clear records of when they are on and off duty. Why are Driving Hours Limited? The purpose of the FMCSA hours of service regulations is to eliminate the type of fatigue and drowsiness that can lead to serious accidents. Driver fatigue can result in slower reaction times, the inability to recognize hazards on the road, and even drivers falling asleep at the wheel. A driver’s ability to assess whether they are capable of driving or not is also impaired. A drowsy driver may not realize the need to pull over until it is too late. Trucking Company Responsibility Federal trucking regulations only help with safety if they are enforced. Most commercial truck drivers are paid by the miles they drive and are therefore given every incentive to break the FMCSA hours of service regulations. Trucking companies have a responsibility to ensure that their drivers are not violating these important regulations. Trucking companies shouldn’t put pressure on their drivers to go beyond the allowed hours and should check driver logs. If a company suspects that a driver is violating FMSCA regulations, further investigation may be necessary. Evidence such as GPS tracking, receipts, shipping records, and surveillance video may be used to establish whether a driver is resting as often as he or she is required. Contact an Experienced Attorney If you’ve been injured in an accident with a truck, it may the result of trucker fatigue, and you should consult with an attorney. Contact the trusted lawyers at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk online or call us at 1-800-538-4878 to schedule your free consultation.

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Truck Accidents – The Catastrophic effects

Mar 20, 2018 | Category: Truck Accidents | By Erik Abrahamson

A tractor trailer owned by ABC Fine Wine and Spirits carrying 30,000 pounds of alcoholic beverages turned over on the bridge above the Alafia River on Interstate 75 pushing a BMW off the interstate between the northbound and southbound lanes. The plunge into the shallow water below killed the 42-year-old driver of the BMW instantly. The CDL driver’s personal license had been suspended six times, but he had no moving violations on his commercial license at the time of the accident. The catastrophic injury attorneys at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk will provide a free case evaluation if you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, call us today, we are available 24/7 at 1-800-538-4878 Wrongful Death When someone dies as a result of deliberate or negligent acts of another, the executor personal representative of the estate and immediate family members of the decedent are legally entitled to file a wrongful death claim. Wrongful deaths cause grief, suffering, and financial hardships. Damages in a wrongful death case include the decedent’s medical expenses, lost wages, the mental anguish and suffering of surviving family members. In wrongful death cases, the survivors may be entitled to deceased. Loss of companionship protection of a spouse or minor children also translates into financial damage in a wrongful death suit. Beneficiaries in Wrongful Death Cases Surviving spouse and children of the deceased can file for damages for the emotional trauma caused by the unexpected death of their loved one. Parents of adult children may also recover loss for emotional distress if the deceased died without any other survivors. Likewise, where a parent dies, a surviving spouse, adult children may recover damages for their mental pain and suffering. It is the personal representative of the estate who is entitled to file the wrongful death claim on behalf of the survivors. Rollover Accidents Violent tractor-trailer rollover accidents account for 58% of the annual truck driver fatalities. Shifting loads and low roll stability cause trucks to roll over. A trailer which rolls over independently of the tractor exerts a torsional force on the tractor. Tractor Trailer Collisions The relative weight of a loaded tractor-trailer truck is 16 times the weight of the average car. Transport trucks travel long distances and need 40 percent more space between vehicles to stop. Wet foggy roads and long uninterrupted miles can lead to catastrophic injuries and wrongful deaths from the most gruesome accidents on the highway. Survivors of collisions with tractor trailers suffer: Brain and Head Injuries Internal Injuries Neck Injuries Spinal Cord Injuries Back Injuries Facial Injuries Brain and Head Injuries Traumatic brain injuries can be mild to severe and can occur without visible signs of injury. Symptoms may not be immediately noticed. Swelling, which results from bruising or bleeding of the brain, may not be detected in the earliest diagnostics. Internal Injuries Internal injuries from the impact of the truck with the car range from severed arteries and veins to punctured or severed organs. Injuries to the bowels, kidneys, spleen, liver, lungs, heart, or aorta are life-threatening. Neck Injuries Neck injuries range from broken bones and sprains to dislocations and disk injuries. Treatment for neck injuries ranges from chiropractic to surgical. Neck injuries can impair a broad range of bodily functions. Spinal Cord Injuries Spinal cord injuries result from fractured and dislocated bones, severed discs, or torn ligaments. Destroyed nerve cells reduce communication between the brain and the spinal cord, which blocks sensory impulses to the brain and inhibits physical activity. Back Injuries Back injuries hinder mobility. Back injuries range from low back sprains and strains to herniated discs and fractured vertebrae. Back injuries can be permanent and disabling. Facial Injuries Facial injuries from broken glass, airbags, or other objects can scrape, cut, or bruise your face. The cuts, scrapes, or bruises may be simple lacerations, fractures, dental injuries, or dislocations requiring surgery. Facial injuries may be associated with brain damage. Psychological Effects Emotional distress, posttraumatic stress disorder, persistent anxiety, and depression are also effects of catastrophic injuries. You may require counselling, home nurses, and physical therapy to recover or adapt. A third-party or wrongful death includes compensation for pain and suffering. Catastrophic Effects If you suffered catastrophic injuries, your lifestyle changes overnight. Your injuries may be life-threatening, permanently disabling, or permanently disfiguring. Your financial situation also changes drastically, and you face: Surgical expenses Hospital costs Doctor bills Diagnostic tests Rehabilitation costs Third Party Claim A third-party claim against all the at-fault parties in your accident can be filed for you to seek compensation for: Medical bills Rehabilitative care Lost wages Property damage Emotional distress Disability Benefits A personal injury attorney can help you find comfort and peace of mind as you recover from your injuries and adjust to disabilities. You should not try to negotiate with any insurance company or your employer by yourself. A personal injury lawyer may be able to help you get the insurance benefits you need from: Social security Medicare Workman’s compensation Supplementary disability insurance The catastrophic injury attorneys at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk will provide a free case evaluation if you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, call us today, we are available 24/7 at 1-800-538-4878

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The Real Reasons Commercial Truck Accidents are So Dangerous

Dec 12, 2014 | Category: Truck Accidents | By Erik Abrahamson

If you’ve been in a car accident, you know how terrifying and devastating they can be. Often, victims are badly injured, and their vehicles are severely damaged or totaled beyond repair. The repercussions can go on for weeks, months, or even years and injury victims may never be the same. However, this often pales in comparison to what the victims of commercial truck accidents in Florida face. These types of crashes are often far more destructive than ones that involve cars. Here’s a brief overview of why. Why commercial truck accidents have serious consequences They weigh more than cars. The average four-door car weighs about 4,000 pounds – and that’s with a driver and other passengers in it. On the other hand, the average tractor-trailer can weigh 80,000 pounds, depending on the type of cargo it’s carrying. It doesn’t take an expert in physics to predict what will happen if a truck of that size strikes a smaller car – especially if they’re traveling in opposite directions. They carry dangerous cargo. Unlike passenger cars, which are made to carry people and easily-portable objects, trucks are made for transporting huge amounts of cargo, some of which are dangerous. At any given time, a truck could be hauling hazardous, flammable, and even explosive material. The Real Reasons Commercial Truck Accidents are So Dangerous   Finally, truck accidents are dangerous because they occur so often, and in ways that can often be prevented. Trucking companies may pressure drivers into shortening or skipping mandated rest periods, or driving over the speed limit to make good time on deliveries. Fleets may also fail to make timely repairs on their vehicles or avoid maintenance altogether. If you think such a driver or their company is at fault for your crash, contact a semi-truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. Talk to an experienced Clearwater truck accident lawyer Would you like information about what to do after a commercial truck accident? Our firm may be able to help. Contact Abrahamson & Uiterwyk 24 hours a day / 7 days a week at 1-800-538-4878. Call us today for a free evaluation of your case.

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Understanding Truck Owner Liability: Who is at Fault in a Truck Accident?

Nov 19, 2014 | Category: Truck Accidents | By Erik Abrahamson

Truck crashes can be some of the most devastating and catastrophic accidents a person can endure. Whether you were hit by a relatively small pickup truck, or monstrous eighteen-wheeler, you were completely outmatched if you were in a passenger car at the time. And if you were a pedestrian, the odds are you suffered even greater harm. You may have serious, long-term injuries, a damaged or unusable vehicle, time and money lost from work, and physical and emotional suffering. The question is who is at fault in a truck accident? And, just as importantly, who will pay the damages for what you went through? Truck accidents: the liability may be broad There is no clear cut answer when it comes to truck accident liability (a.k.a. legal responsibility). The truth is, the blame may be shared across several different parties or organizations. Let’s take a look at a few examples: The driver. One of the chief culprits to look at in trucking accidents in Tampa (or truck accidents elsewhere in Florida) is the driver. It’s possible the person who hit you was drunk, on illegal or prescription medication, tired, distracted, unlicensed, or had numerous citations but was still on the road. The trucking company (if one was involved). There are numerous laws trucking companies are supposed to follow involving the care of their vehicles, the types of drivers they hire, and the rules those drivers must follow. For instance, drivers are legally mandated to take regular rest breaks so that they don’t become overtired and get drowsy or fall asleep at the wheel. However, in their never-ending quest to make more money in less time, trucking companies often have drivers skip these crucial breaks in order to speed up their delivery rates or to avoid hiring more drivers. The maintenance crew. Whether it’s a single mechanic or group of them, shoddy or incomplete truck maintenance is often to blame for accidents. If trucks don’t undergo regular maintenance or repairs and they go undone, it is only a matter of time before a serious accident results. Talk to our Clearwater truck accident lawyers as soon as possible If you have a case surrounding truck owner liability, our Florida truck accident lawyers may be able to help. The staff of Abrahamson & Uiterwyk is available 24 hours a day / 7 days a week, and can be reached at 1-800-538-4878. Call us today for a free evaluation of your case.

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Recent Truck Accident Statistics Reveal Fatal Accidents Are on the Rise

Jul 15, 2014 | Category: Truck Accidents | By Erik Abrahamson

According to a recent study from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there has been a recent rise in both injuries and fatalities in crashes involving large trucks. In 2012, injuries caused by crashes involving large trucks increased by 18 percent from 2011. Fatalities caused by crashes involving large trucks over the same time frame rose by 4 percent. About the NHTSA Large Trucks Study The study is conducted regularly by the NHTSA and is made available through the administration’s National Center for Statistics and Analysis. For the purposes of the study, a large truck is defined as a motor vehicle with a gross weight of over 100,000 pounds. Other Revealing National Truck Accidents Statistics Large trucks made up 4 percent of all registered vehicles and 9 percent of the entire road miles traveled in the United States in 2012. A significant proportion of trucking fatalities are a result of accidents involving multiple vehicles. In 2012, 81 percent of fatal accidents involving large trucks were multiple-vehicle accidents. Out of the 104,000 people killed in large truck accidents in 2012: 24 percent were occupying a large truck at the time of accident. 73 percent were occupying another vehicle. 3 percent were not occupying a vehicle. Florida Truck Accident Statistics from the Study According to the study, a total of 3,428 vehicles were involved in fatal crash in Florida in 2012. Out of this total, 194 of these vehicles were large trucks; representing 5.7 percent of all vehicles involved these types of accidents in our state that year. Have you or a loved one been in injured in a Florida truck accident? Call our injury law team today! If you’ve been seriously injured, our Tampa truck accident attorneys may be able to bring you legal options into focus. Call our injury law team today at 1-800-538-4878 to get started.

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How Often Do Truck Drivers Cause Florida Truck Accidents?

Dec 12, 2013 | Category: Personal Injury | By Erik Abrahamson

When many drivers think about the leading causes of truck accidents, factors like truck driver fatigue and driver inexperience are likely to come to mind. However, recent research has shown that truck drivers may be responsible for a much lower percentage of truck accidents than one might assume. Two Recent Studies on the Causes of Truck Accidents For example, a 2013 study conducted by the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute revealed that car drivers were at least somewhat responsible for the vast majority of truck accidents. According to the study, truck drivers were partially or completely to blame for 27 percent of all truck accidents included in the institute’s research. Car drivers, on the other hand, were either partly or fully to blame in 81 percent of these accidents. Similarly, the American Trucking Association used data culled from a handful of studies to show that car drivers tended to be responsible for some of the most serious types of truck accidents. According to a NHTSA study included in the research, car drivers were more likely to be responsible for truck accidents involving head-on crashes, rear end crashes and sideswipes. Truck drivers were responsible for the majority of backing accidents included in the study. How Do Other Drivers Cause Truck Accidents Several years ago, the Office of Motor Carriers of the Federal Highway Administration released a report underlying the types of irresponsible behaviors that were most closely linked to collisions between commercial trucks and other vehicles. According to the report, some of the most unsafe driver-related behaviors involved in fatal commercial truck accidents include: Running out of a lane or off of the road Failure to yield right of way Speeding Inattentive driving Reckless or erratic driving Have you been hurt in a commercial truck accident in our area? Call our Tampa truck accident lawyers now at 1-800-538-4878. Regardless of who was at fault, a truck accident can have devastating consequences that can include serious injury and loss of life. If you or a loved one has been seriously hurt in Tampa truck accident, call Abrahamson & Uiterwyk today at 1-800-538-4878.

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Who Might be Liable for Delivery Driver Accidents?

Sep 29, 2013 | Category: Car Accidents | By Erik Abrahamson

Delivery drivers may cause accidents when they are in a rush to get food and other products to customers. When a delivery driver causes a car accident, the question arises who may be held responsible in a personal injury lawsuit. Scope of Employment An employer may be held liable if the delivery driver was acting in his or her capacity as an employee when the accident occurred. The legal term for this concept is “acting in the course and scope of employment.” Insurance companies may insure delivery drivers in the name of the employer. However, insurance companies may argue that the employee was acting outside the scope of his employment. This situation may occur if a person goes on a different route not related to his or her work or if he or she makes extra stops for personal reasons. Importance of Proving Employment Proving that drivers are working within the scope of their employment is often very important in cases involving delivery driver accidents. This is because if the employee is found to be acting outside the scope of his or her employment, the employer may not be held liable. This may mean that the victim can only receive compensation from the driver or the insurance company, but not directly from the employer. Cases Involving Delivery Drivers One case occurred when a Broward County woman was hit by a pizza delivery driver. The pizza restaurant that employed the man said that the driver was not acting as an employee at the time of the crash. Meanwhile, the victim was permanently injured and unable to work again. The jury found that the driver was not acting within the scope of his employment when the crash occurred. This made a dramatic difference in the amount of money that the jury awarded the plaintiff. If you’ve been hurt, you may need the help of a personal injury lawyer If you were injured by a delivery driver, an auto accident lawyer in Florida may be able to help. Call Abrahamson & Uiterwyk today at 1-800-538-4878 or fill out our contact form for a free initial consultation and case evaluation.

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Legal Drug Use Contributes to Commercial Truck Accidents

Jun 22, 2013 | Category: Truck Accidents | By Erik Abrahamson

Florida and across the United States, becoming sandwiched between large commercial trucks barreling down the highway at 65 miles an hour is a frightening enough experience. Of the 5,700,000 commercial motor vehicle drivers, more than a third used prescription or over-the-counter medication. While the use of illegal drugs was relatively rare, it’s important to remember that over-the-counter and prescribed drugs can cause impaired driving as well. Understanding the Risks: Over-the-Counter Drugs vs. Road Safety While the data shows that alcohol abuse and the use of illegal drugs among commercial drivers are declining, it highlights the use of legal drugs as a factor. Impaired driving is not just limited to alcohol abuse, distractions, or the use of illegal drugs. A commercial truck driver may be taking medications to control epileptic seizures, chronic pain, or even allergies. All of these legal prescription medications can cause the driver to be impaired. In addition, over-the-counter medications often cause drowsiness. When combined with an already tired driver, the use of legal drugs increases the probability of compromised decision making and impaired reaction times. Road Safety and Driver Health Private and public organizations are raising awareness of the risk factors like driver impairment that play major roles in truck-related traffic fatalities. Proponents of traffic safety continue to find a means to prevent commercial truck drivers with health issues from taking to the roads. In addition, education with regard to impaired driving and the standardization of effective regulations is ongoing. Have You Been Seriously Injured by an Intoxicated Driver? Our Tampa Truck Accident Lawyers May Be Able to Help. Florida residents who have been involved in collisions with commercial trucks and buses may be eligible for compensation for their injuries. If you’ve seriously injured by a driver’s irresponsible behavior, call today at 1-800-538-4878 for a free case evaluation and initial consultation from an experienced Tampa truck accident lawyer.

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New Study Shows Car Drivers are Often Responsible for Fatal Truck Accidents

Feb 27, 2013 | Category: Truck Accidents | By Erik Abrahamson

While much media attention goes to negligent truck drivers who cause fatal accidents in Florida, the truth is the drivers of passenger vehicles are responsible for the majority of these accidents. According to a report from the American Trucking Associations’ passenger vehicle drivers are responsible for commercial truck accidents about 75 percent of the time. The American Trucking Associations assessed reports from a variety of large-scale studies from major organizations and businesses associated with traffic safety. The study focused on over 8,300 fatal truck accidents, determining the fault of these accidents. Due to the fact that commercial trucks are so much larger and more powerful, truck drivers were often the ones who live to tell their version of the event. The organization’s report recognized that some of their data may have been influenced by the only surviving person’s testimony. However, when the analysts looked at fatal crashes in which only a passenger died, leaving the driver of the truck and passenger vehicle alive, they still found that passenger vehicle drivers were still responsible for the majority of cases. These types of crashes accounted for 15 percent of the total number of crashes. Passenger vehicle drivers were cited in 73 percent of these cases. One of the studies that the American Trucking Associations considered found that passenger vehicle drivers were responsible for 91 percent of head-on collisions. They were also responsible for 91 percent of sideswipes that occurred in the opposite direction. Passenger vehicle drivers were additionally found to be responsible for 71 percent of rear-end crashes, according to the report. Another study found that passenger vehicle drivers were responsible for 85 percent of fatal truck crashes in 2007 and 2008 and for 81 percent of the crashes in 2009. The American Trucking Associations also found that several factors resulted in higher likelihood of crashes. Some of these factors included speeding, following too closely, consumption of alcohol and traffic density. Put Our Attorneys’ 100+ Years of Experience to Work for You! If you’ve been seriously injured in an auto accident in our area, our experienced injury law firm may be able to help. Call Abrahamson & Uiterwyk today at 1-800-538-4878 for a free initial consultation.

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University Study Finds an Increased Risk of Car Accident Fatalities for the Obese

Feb 2, 2013 | Category: Truck Accidents | By Erik Abrahamson

Data compiled by the Emergency Medicine Journal in a report by the Safety Transportation Education and Research Center at the University of California have determined that people who are overweight or obese have a much higher chance of dying in auto accidents than people who are not obese. The New York Times blog Safe Travels reported that researchers took the information from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System, which is overseen by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This information was also used in conjunction with classifications for obesity as stipulated by the World Health Organization. With a total of over 41,000 auto collisions, drivers were broken up into four groups that categorize the different body types on the BMI index. Out of over 5200 drivers for whom researches acquired information, 3 percent of the drivers involved in accidents had a BMI of less than 18.5 percent. 46 percent of the drivers had a normal body mass of 18.5 to 24.9 percent. 33 percent were classified as overweight and 18 percent of drivers are classified by the BMI scale as being obese. While death rates in all the accidents studied were the same for the first three body type categories, obese drivers had a higher incidence of fatalities. Some surmise that contributing factors include poor health and vehicle design, although a definite explanation for this correlation remains unclear. Researchers at the Center for Injury Research and Policy have suggested a couple of factors that may increase the risk of fatalities in car accidents for obese drivers. The first is that the body of an obese person body may move more in an accident before the seat belt can engage. In extreme obesity cases, obese people typically go without their seat belts or couldn’t wear the seat belts properly. Seat belt use was not used to determine death in accidents. In addition, other issues that were not taken into account include the use of airbags, alcohol impairment, and the type of vehicle involved in the accident, the age and sex of the driver and whether the accidents were a result of a head-on collision. Researchers go on to say that while vehicles are doing better in protecting crash test dummies, these are typically designed to reflect a normal adult or child and not someone who is overweight or obese. This can also present problems considering that the CDC estimates that over one third of all adults may be obese. States such as Louisiana, Alabama, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Michigan, Indiana and South Carolina have some of the highest rates for obesity nationwide. Some researchers estimate that obesity levels will rise to 60 percent of the US population by as early as 2030. Call Now and Put Our Attorneys’ 100+ Years of Experience to Work for You! If you or someone you love has been involved in an auto accident, contact a Tampa injury attorney today. Call Abrahamson & Uiterwyk now at 1-800-538-4878 for a free case evaluation.

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Federal Agency to Focus on Truck and Bus Safety this Holiday Season

Oct 15, 2012 | Category: Car Accidents | By Erik Abrahamson

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has announced several improvements to its Compliance Safety Accountability program, which is tasked with assisting various safety officials in identifying safety concerns among trucking and bus companies. The changes are scheduled to be implemented before the busy holiday travel season begins in December and may help local officials avoid potentially tragic Tampa car accidents. “These improvements will enable us to better identify and address unsafe truck and bus companies before tragedies occur,” said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. Some of the improvements that the administration is putting into place include: More accurate identification of safety sensitive carriers, such as those hauling hazardous materials Changes to the Carrier Safety Management System (SMS) designed to address industry biases in identifying high risk carriers Improved display of SMS results on the SMS website The program is specifically designed to identify and address bus and truck companies that are posing a particularly high risk for compliance concerns as soon as possible. According to the FMCSA, the number of fatalities involving commercial vehicles dropped by 4.7 percent between 2010 and 2011. By raising the bar for truck and bus safety, the administration hopes to continue to lower the number of fatalities related to large bus and truck accidents. Let Us Put Our Experienced Personal Injury Attorneys to Work for You! If you’ve been seriously injured in a car accident in our area due to another driver’s neglect, it’s important to find a Tampa personal injury attorney with the knowledge and experience to fight for your rights. Contact the law offices of Abrahamson & Uiterwyk today for a free initial consultation at 1-800-538-4878.

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Clearwater Teen Injured from St. Cloud Hit-and-Run

Aug 8, 2011 | Category: Car Accidents | By Erik Abrahamson

St. Cloud police are investigation a hit-and-run that struck Monday, July 26th at around 8:30 p.m. The Clearwater teen was walking with a friend in a residential area near the intersection of 25th Street Southeast and 14 ½ Avenue Southeast in St. Cloud when she was hit by a Dodge pickup truck. The truck, which continued on without stopping, was described as a small, black Dodge single cab pickup truck with a white Dodge decal on the tailgate, loud exhaust, and a missing driver’s side mirror. The driver was described as a white male with a shaved head between 20-40 years of age. According to the police report, 15 year-old Rosalie Ann Post had substantial injuries. However, she has been released from the hospital and is recovering at home.

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