Because of their size and weight, trucks can be some of the most dangerous vehicles on the road — especially when they are making U-turns. Although truck drivers should not make uncontrolled U-turns without a spotter to guide them, these types of conditions are not always present. When proper safety measures are not in place to make U-turns, the risk of accident increases substantially.
Driver fatigue, impaired judgment, equipment problems and poor training are common reasons truck accidents occur. In addition, U-turns made by commercial trucks can be particularly dangerous for a number of reasons, including the following:
- It may be difficult for the truck driver to tell whether the turn can be completed safely
- Vehicles may be in the truck’s blind spot as the driver begins the turn
- Certain roads may not be wide enough to accommodate U-turns made by trucks
- It can take additional time for a truck to accelerate once the turn has been completed
When truck drivers fail to make U-turns properly, serious car accidents and multiple vehicle pile-ups can occur, causing drivers and passengers to sustain severe injuries. In the event that you suffered injuries due to a truck driver’s negligent U-turn, you may be entitled to compensation by pursuing a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible party.
Liable parties in a trucking accident can include the truck driver, the trucking company, the cargo loader or the truck manufacturer, depending on the facts and circumstances of the accident. In some cases, a municipality may also be held accountable if the design of the road contributed to the accident.
In Florida, a plaintiff who prevails in a trucking accident case may be entitled to recover their economic damages — including medical costs, lost wages, and property damage — as well as non-economic damages for their pain and suffering.
If you were injured as a result of a truck driver’s improper U-turn, you should contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and ensure you obtain the compensation you deserve. Frank Charles Miranda, P.A. provides capable counsel and dedicated representation to truck accident victims in the Tampa area and strives to secure the maximum recovery available. Call 813-902-3925 or contact us online to schedule a consultation at our Tampa office.