Motor vehicle accidents across Florida occur at an alarming rate. Unfortunately, more than 400,000 are reported each year. Unfortunately, reckless and negligent driving are the leading causes of these horrific and unexpected collisions. When it comes to semi-truck accidents, drivers often overlook drowsy driving as a leading cause of collisions.

Semi-truck accidents are more likely to result in fatal injuries when compared to collisions involving other vehicles. The size and weight of these vehicles are more likely to cause devastating injuries, especially to victims in smaller vehicles.

According to reports offered by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, between 2.3 and 2.5 percent of all semi-truck accidents resulting in fatalities are caused by drowsy drivers. Regardless of the number of laws in place to prevent drivers from engaging in this irresponsible activity, we continue to see the consequences victims and their families are forced to suffer through from collisions.

The Rise in Truck Accidents across the Country

Reports issued by the NHTSA show that the number of truck-related fatal collisions are drastically increasing, despite the fact that the overall number of collisions are on a decline. Between 2017 and 2018, our roadways saw over 4,300 more fatal accidents involving semi-trucks – representing a 9 percent increase.

More than 1,300 victims killed in these devastating collisions are the truck drivers themselves. When drivers transport heavy freight, they are at an increased risk of suffering debilitating and catastrophic injuries in collisions. Engaging in drowsy driving just increases the risk of these horrific collisions immensely.

Why Truck Drivers are More Likely to Drive Drowsy

Drivers of semi-trucks are more likely to engage in drowsy driving because of the rewards companies offer for doing so. Many companies offer drivers incentives and bonuses for making early deliveries. Regardless of the fact that it is illegal for drivers to remain on the road for over 14-hours straight, we see countless drivers engage in this dangerous activity in an effort to make early deliveries and receive the awards.

Tight deadlines often entice drivers to ignore the rules, regulations, and laws which dictate how they drive. As a result, we see countless victims harmed in devastating collisions they cause from driving too tired.

If you were Injured in Truck Accident, Contact Sheftall & Associates

Being injured in a semi-truck accident can have a devastating impact on a victim’s life. Victims involved in semi accidents are more likely to suffer broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and various damages that impact their mental, physical, and financial wellbeing. For this reason, it is crucial for victims to reach out to a semi-truck accident attorney in Florida to protect their legal rights.

We at Sheftall & Associates are dedicated to helping victims recover the maximum amount of compensation available to alleviate the costs of medical treatment and other damages incurred. We strive to ensure victims get the justice they deserve from those who cause them harm. Contact our personal injury attorneys in Florida at 904-647-2296 to get the justice you deserve.