The Top 7 Causes of Trucking Accidents in Tampa

Between 2,500 and 3,000 trucking accidents occur each year in the Tampa Bay area. Trucking accidents in Tampa are among the most devastating and dangerous incidents on our roadways. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks make them capable of causing catastrophic damage, injury, and loss of life. To prevent these tragic accidents, it’s crucial to understand their causes. In this blog, we examine the top seven most common causes of trucking accidents in Tampa.  

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1. Truck driver fatigue

One of the leading causes of trucking accidents in Tampa is driver fatigue. Long hours on the road, demanding schedules, and pressure to meet deadlines can result in tired and drowsy truck drivers. Fatigued drivers have slower reaction times, impaired judgment, and a higher likelihood of falling asleep at the wheel, leading to accidents.

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2. Distracted driving

Distracted driving is a problem across all forms of transportation, including the trucking industry. Truck drivers can become distracted by various factors, such as texting, phone calls, eating, or adjusting GPS systems while driving. These distractions divert their attention from the road, increasing the risk of accidents.

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3. Speeding

Excessive speed is a significant contributor to trucking accidents in Tampa. Commercial trucks require a longer distance to stop compared to passenger vehicles. When truck drivers exceed the speed limit or drive too fast for road conditions, they have less time to react to unexpected events, increasing the likelihood of collisions.

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4. Poor weather conditions

Tampa Bay is the “lightning capital of North America.” Throughout the year, the region experiences severe thunderstorms that can cause poor driving conditions. As a result of these storms, reduced visibility and slippery road surfaces can lead to accidents if drivers do not adjust their speed and driving habits accordingly.

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5. Improper loading and overloading

Improper loading or overloading of cargo can affect a truck’s stability and handling. When a truck is not loaded correctly, it becomes more difficult to control, increasing the risk of rollovers and accidents.

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6. Mechanical failures

Sometimes, but not often, truck mechanical failures, such as brake failures, tire blowouts, or engine malfunctions, can cause accidents. Poorly maintained trucks are more likely to experience these issues.

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7. Aggressive driving and road rage

Aggressive driving behaviors, like tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and road rage incidents, can escalate quickly and lead to accidents involving commercial trucks.

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If a truck driver caused your accident in Tampa, we can help

As you can see by this list, many common causes of trucking accidents in Tampa are preventable. If you’ve been injured in a Tampa trucking accident, the lawyers at Darrigo & Diaz can help you hold the responsible parties accountable, so you can recover all the damages to which you are entitled.

Call 813-437-9077 or contact us online to schedule your free case consultation.

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