Trucking accidents are increasing in Bradenton, Sarasota and Venice, Florida and across the United States. This is due partially to increased overall traffic on the highways. Another potential factor is decreased training and less stringent requirements for truck drivers as companies are finding a shortage of available truck drivers. In addition, due to the lack of truck drivers many of them are on the road for longer hours.

Trucking accidents make up less than 5% of vehicle accidents involving personal injury. However, trucking accidents account for approximately 10% of traffic fatalities. This is because there is no such thing as a minor trucking accident. Trucks are significantly heavier and larger then automobiles, so when a truck hits your car it is not going to be a fender bender.

Trucking accidents are mostly caused by driver error. The driver was not attentive, was overtired or was under the influence. Equipment failure such as defective or worn tires and brakes are another cause of these accidents. Bad weather and poor visibility play significant roles in trucking accidents as well as improper loading. Lack of training and proper monitoring of drivers are also significant factors.

Due to the great danger that trucks present to automobiles it is best to try to avoid driving too closely behind or next to a truck. If you are involved in an accident with a truck you should immediately seek medical attention and then call a board certified civil trial lawyer who has experience handling personal injury cases caused by trucking accidents.

What you should not do is talk to anyone before talking to a lawyer. Trucking companies and their insurers’ are very aggressive and have even been known to send investigators into the emergency room within hours of your accident to attempt to get a statement. The fact that you are in pain or under the influence of medication will not deter them. In addition, you should not post pictures or talk about your accident or injuries on social media such as Facebook or Twitter.

What you should do is accurately report all of your injuries and the cause of your injuries to your medical providers. You should provide your medical providers with all of your auto and health insurance information. In addition, you should get someone to take pictures with a date stamp of the damage to your automobile, the accident scene and your injuries as soon as possible.