What causes so many serious large truck accidents in Palm Beach?

Several factors cause big trucks to be more complicated to operate—and more likely to be involved in accidents—than ever before. Commercial trucks are big, heavy vehicles. An empty truck and trailer can weigh up to 26,000 pounds. However, the allowed weight on most US highways is 80,000 lbs. That means there could be a whopping 40 tons of metal moving at freight train velocities, alongside our relatively puny passenger vehicles!

This massive size alone dictates limitations in maneuverability, which can lead to dangerous accidents for cars carrying precious cargo of families and loved ones. If you or anyone you know has experienced a loss or serious injury due to a truck accident, it is important to contact an experienced Palm Beach truck accident attorney.

Large Truck Fatality Rate is High
Large trucks have higher fatal accident rates per mile traveled than passenger vehicles. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety estimates that 4,008 people died in truck accidents in 2008. Of these deaths, 69 percent were occupants of cars and other passenger vehicles.

The danger involving truck accidents is clearly highlighted by such alarming statistics. According to official estimates, the problem will only escalate from here. Extra safety precautions taken by drivers might help prevent the fatalities associated with truck accidents in Florida from increasing as well.

Truck Industry is Expanding
One factor adding to the likelihood of accidents with large trucks is how fast the truck industry is expanding. According to federal highway administration, commercial truck traffic “traveling between two points at a minimum of 50 miles apart from each other” will have dramatically increased on major roadways across the country by 2020.

As the trucking industry grows, the agency predicts that traffic congestion problems will be worse on roadways everywhere, but especially near borders and airports. This is mainly due to the fact that the amount of goods being transported into the US by truck from outside the country has increased by 50% in the past 20 years.

Riskier Behavior
Although these long-term estimates range into 2035, we are already seeing more trucks on the roads and more goods being hauled. This means higher expectations by the big truck organizations, and possibly riskier behavior by the truckers to accommodate ever-tightening drive schedules and performance demands. We can only hope that increased attention to safety measures will prevent the number of big truck accidents—and fatalities—from mounting as well.

Need Help?
If you or anyone you know has been in a Florida truck accident, contact Fetterman & Associates at 1-866-865-1244 to speak with an experienced Palm Beach truck accident attorney. We will ensure that you are aware of the best options to protect your rights.

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