Truck Accidents in Brevard County
Mark Anthony Gager — a West Melbourne, Florida, Attorney
A truck accident is a terrible thing — compared to car accidents, the injuries that result are almost invariably severe and massive. Often, they are fatal. Considering the sheer mass of an 18-wheeler or tractor-trailer, it's not at all surprising that this should be the case. Because of a truck's size, truck drivers are held to federal and state regulations requiring them to adhere to strict standards of safety so that truck accidents don't happen.
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When truck accidents do happen, it's usually because the truck driver in one way or another was in violation of these regulations. In Florida, truck drivers must follow two sets of regulations. They are:
- The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulation (FMCSR) that applies uniformly throughout the United States
- The Florida Department of Transportation Requirements (FLDOTRs) that apply only in Florida, as the name suggests
While these regulations are very lengthy and complicated, the important thing for the average citizen to understand is that truck drivers are expected to exercise far greater caution on the road than other drivers. For example, while the BAC limit for drunk driving in Florida is .08 percent for most drivers on the road, it is .02 percent for truck drivers.
What You Should Do If You're Involved in a Truck Accident
- Call the police right away. Get a full, complete report to make sure all the details of the accident are recorded.
- Talk to a lawyer before you sign any insurance papers and before you talk to any insurance companies.
- See a doctor immediately — even if you don't feel hurt. Some injuries can go unnoticed for days. A soft-tissue injury, sprain or strain may not cause any pain until the affected muscle begins to affect, in turn, the muscles and bones that surround it.
- Do not admit responsibility for the accident. Don't say anything to anyone about the accident except to the police and your attorney.
If a truck accident has harmed you or a member of your family, you need to speak with an attorney as soon as possible. For a free consultation with the Law Offices of Mark Anthony Gager, contact us or call 321-473-3275.
