The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has determined in a study that 18-wheelers are significantly more difficult to control when winds exceed 25 miles per hour. Essentially, due to the sheer size of an 18-wheeler, wind resistance can sometimes mount on one side of the trailer, and if the truck operator does not respond accordingly, the truck may tip over. Accidents caused by high-speed winds occur primarily on bridges, highways, overpasses, and open prairies. Whether you are a truck driver or someone who was involved in a truck accident, you must continue reading to learn more about how to stay safe, or, if you were injured, how our experineced Jacksonville firm can help you recover the compensation you need to heal.
What precautions can commercial truck drivers take to avoid wind-related accidents?
While wind-related accidents sound frightening and almost unavoidable, the truth is, truck drivers can take several preventative measures to drastically decrease the odds of a wind-related accident occurring. For example, before setting out, they should check the weather to see whether they will encounter stormy or windy weather. Additionally, they should also prepare by ensuring that their truck is properly loaded, for an unbalanced truck is far more likely to tip over if it is hit by a high-speed gust. Finally, if a truck driver is caught in high-speed winds while he or she is on the job, the truck driver should slow down, pull over, or take a different route.
What should I do after sustaining injuries in a truck accident?
Of course, truck accidents are extremely jarring, and not to mention very frequently fatal. However, if you are injured in a truck accident and find yourself capable, please take the following steps:
- Call the police.
- Ask the truck driver for his or her insurance information while keeping conversation to a minimum.
- Take pictures of the scene of the accident. Documenting the incident is critical.
- Ask any witnesses for their name, phone number, and email address.
- Once treated in a hospital, ask your doctor for all medical documentation regarding the origin and extent of your injuries.
- Hire a knowledgeable Florida personal injury attorney who will fight for the compensation you deserve and need. The sooner you reach out to our firm, the sooner we can begin the claims process on your behalf. If you wait any longer than four years to file your claim, you will most likely be barred from suing. Give us a call today so we can get started.
Contact our experienced Florida firm
Ansbacher Law is comprised of knowledgeable attorneys who are ready to assist clients with various legal matters throughout North Florida. We understand the urgency of your personal injury claim and additional legal matters, which is why we provide each of our clients with compassionate and efficient legal assistance, every step of the way. Please contact our office for an initial consultation today.
