Interstate 75 (I-75) is one of the busiest highways in Florida, running through 11 counties and spanning nearly 500 miles. The highway connects the state’s major cities, such as Miami, Jacksonville, and Tampa, allowing travelers to easily reach far-flung destinations, making it an important shipping route for commercial trucks.
As with any popular route, a high volume of travelers equates to a high number of accidents. According to a 2015 task force established to improve safety on this major route: “Most of the I-75 corridor experiences crash rates greater than the statewide average for similar facilities. This reflects the mix of customers using the facility including commuters, visitors, and a large percentage of trucks, as well as fog and other weather-related issues and other non-recurring events.“
The reality is that most people along this corridor can’t avoid using I-75, and are therefore at risk of a collision each time they drive on this major route. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash, finding legal help is one of many important steps you’ll need to take.
Contact 1-800-Injured To Connect With an I-75 Truck Accident Attorney
1-800-Injured is a lawyer and medical referral service that can connect you to an experienced lawyer in your area who is familiar with I-75 truck accident cases.
Filing an insurance claim after a car accident can quickly get complicated, especially when the accident involves a commercial truck. Commercial insurance policies often come with liability limits over $1 million. While this certainly means there is room for seeking the compensation you deserve, this does not mean that it will be an easy process. Insurance companies are in the business of making money, so they will look for any way to minimize their financial responsibility.
That is why you must contact an experienced I-75 truck accident lawyer right away if you believe you have been hurt due to someone else’s negligence. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the complex legal system and ensure that you are properly compensated for your injuries.
At 1-800-Injured, we understand the hardships that victims of I-75 truck accidents face, and want to do whatever we can to help them get back on their feet as quickly as possible. Contact us right away so we can find a truck accident lawyer in Florida for you, while you stay focused on your rest and recovery.
Major Cities That Are Along Interstate 75 in Florida
The following cities are just a handful of the many locales directly along or very near this major interstate. Whether or not your accident occurred in any of the following locations, contact 1-800-Injured to connect with an attorney who can help you make sense of your case and fight for what you deserve.
- Jacksonville
- Lake City
- Gainesville
- Ocala
- Wildwood
- Bushnell
- Dade City
- Zephyrhills
- Tampa
- Sarasota
- Fort Myers
- Naples
- Punta Gorda
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
The following are just a few of the many ways that an accident can happen. Whether or not the specific cause of your crash is mentioned below, we encourage you to contact us as soon as possible to discuss the specifics of your situation with an attorney.
Mechanical Malfunction/Equipment Failure
Many truck accidents result from mechanical malfunctions or equipment failure. This could be due to improper maintenance, outdated parts, or negligence in replacing or inspecting certain components. Drivers may not always be aware of the condition of their vehicles, which can lead to serious accidents if the vehicle parts need repair or replacement.
Dangerous Road Conditions
In 2015, Florida established a task force meant to improve safety on I-75, and in the introduction of their final report, stated the following: “I-75 faces significant safety, efficiency, and reliability issues today—all of which are anticipated to become more significant as our population, visitors, economy, and trade flows continue to grow.”
Anyone who travels on this road may already be aware of these issues, which can lead to collisions between 18-wheelers and passenger vehicles.
Distracted Drivers/Reckless Driving
Distracted driving is a leading cause of truck accidents on I-75 and across the country. Truck drivers may become distracted by their phones, conversations with passengers, eating and drinking while driving, and other activities that take their focus away from the road.
Poor Weather Conditions
Poor weather conditions can lead to slippery roads and low visibility, making it difficult for drivers to navigate safely. Heavy rain and strong winds can significantly reduce visibility on I-75 and increase the chances of an accident.
In weather events that cause many people to stay home, truck drivers may still need to take to the roads. These drivers are highly experienced but, regardless of their skill, may be no match for nature’s full force.
Driver Fatigue
Driver fatigue is another major factor in truck crashes on I-75. Long hours without breaks create a dangerous situation for drivers who are exhausted behind the wheel. FMCSA’s Hours of Service are intended to keep drivers safe, but limiting the hours a trucker can drive will have no bearing on activities outside of work that may lead to fatigue.
Drowsy driving can lead to slower reaction times and impaired judgment, increasing the risks of a deadly crash occurring on busy highways like I-75. Many studies have shown fatigue to be as dangerous as driving drunk, although one has much more of a stigma than the other.
Road Debris and Other Hazards
Road debris, such as broken glass and rocks, can cause tires to blow out or create poor traction for vehicles braking on wet roads. Low overpasses combined with heavy trucks have led to some catastrophic collisions on I-75 due to misjudgment or negligence in navigating those areas safely.
Unsafe Cargo
Unsafe cargo loads can throw off a truck’s balance, drastically impeding its ability to stay upright when making turns or sudden stops while traveling along I-75.
Drivers may or may not be responsible for securing their cargo. Many shipping operations have dedicated warehouse teams comprised of loaders and inspectors to ensure the safety of cargo being loaded onto trailers. These teams would be liable for an accident caused by improper loading. In other instances, the driver may be responsible for ensuring the integrity of their cargo load. Your attorney will help you determine which party is liable and, therefore, which party you will file a claim against.