Commercial trucks are a common sight in Fort Myers, carrying goods in and out of Southwest Florida every day. These vehicles are much larger and heavier than passenger cars, which means accidents involving them often result in devastating injuries.
To help keep drivers safe, both Florida and federal agencies enforce strict trucking regulations. Learning how these rules work is important if you or a loved one has been involved in a crash with a large truck.
Reach out to a Fort Myers truck accident today — contact us online.
Key Trucking Regulations That Apply in Florida
Florida’s commercial trucking industry is regulated by both state law and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Together, these rules are designed to reduce risks and ensure trucks are operated safely. Some of the most important include:
- Hours-of-service rules: Truck drivers must follow limits on how long they can drive without rest, reducing the dangers of fatigue.
- Weight restrictions: Trucks must comply with maximum weight limits to protect both road safety and infrastructure.
- Vehicle inspections and maintenance: Regular inspections are required to make sure brakes, tires, and other critical systems are functioning properly.
- Drug and alcohol testing: Federal rules require commercial drivers to undergo testing to help prevent impaired driving.
- Commercial driver’s license (CDL) standards: Operators must meet training and licensing requirements before driving big rigs.
When trucking companies or drivers fail to follow these regulations, they increase the risk of serious collisions. Evidence of violations can also play a major role in proving liability after an accident.
Liability in Fort Myers Truck Accidents
Truck accident claims can be more complex than typical car crash cases because multiple parties may share responsibility. Depending on the circumstances, the following could be held liable:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company that employs the driver
- A third-party maintenance provider
- The company responsible for loading cargo
- A manufacturer of defective truck parts
Sorting out liability requires a detailed investigation into driver logs, maintenance records, black box data, and other evidence. Without this, it can be difficult to know who should pay for your injuries and losses.
Steps To Take After a Truck Accident in Fort Myers, FL
If you’re injured in a commercial truck accident, the actions you take afterward can affect your ability to bring a successful personal injury claim. Consider these steps:
- Call 911 so the police and emergency responders arrive at the scene
- Seek medical attention right away, even if you think your injuries are minor
- Collect evidence if it’s safe, such as photos of the vehicles, skid marks, and road conditions
- Get contact details from witnesses and other drivers
- Avoid admitting fault or making statements to insurance adjusters without legal advice
- Contact a Fort Myers personal injury attorney for a free consultation
These steps not only protect your health but also preserve the evidence needed to pursue compensation later.
Protecting Your Rights Under Florida Trucking Laws
Commercial trucking laws are meant to protect everyone on the road, but violations still happen. If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Fort Myers, Florida, you may be entitled to compensation. Garvin Injury Law can guide you through the entire legal process, including taking your case to court if necessary.
Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more. We work on contingency, which means we only get paid if we win compensation for you.