JONES LAW GROUP | Your Lawyers for Life! Personal Injury Law Firm in St. Petersburg

Jones Law Group logo, Personal Injury Lawyer in St Petersburg Floridajones law group attorney lawyer logo
Truck Accidents Caused by Large Trucks Other Than Semis - JLG

Truck Accidents Caused by Large Trucks Other Than Semis

Summary When most people think about truck accidents caused by large trucks, they usually picture semi-trucks that weigh 80,000 pounds. But there are many kinds of large trucks, and they can all result in devastating accidents leading to catastrophic injuries – and worse. The following is a look at some of these trucks and information […]

Call our personal injury law office directly at (727) 512-9847

Find Out If You Have a Personal Injury Case

At Jones Law Group in St. Petersburg, FL, we would like to hear from you. Contact us for a free personal injury case consultation.

Call our personal injury law office at (727) 512-9847

Florida Personal Injury Insights

Get educated on the Florida's personal injury laws and more.

Summary

  • Truck accidents caused by large trucks are an occurrence far too common in Florida
  • Box, tow, dump, garbage, and delivery trucks can all be extremely dangerous.
  • Many factors contribute to large truck accidents, including lost cargo, driver fatigue, and many others.
  • Truck accident victims must hire an attorney to obtain maximum compensation. 
  • Trucking companies must do all they can to make their vehicles safe. If they don’t, they can face liability should an accident occur.

When most people think about truck accidents caused by large trucks, they usually picture semi-trucks that weigh 80,000 pounds. But there are many kinds of large trucks, and they can all result in devastating accidents leading to catastrophic injuries – and worse. The following is a look at some of these trucks and information on why these horrible collisions occur.

If you’ve suffered an injury or lost a loved one in an accident involving a large truck, the attorneys with the Jones Law Group will work to help you obtain maximum compensation. Schedule a free case review by contacting us online or calling (727) 571-1333.

Understanding the Different Types of Large Trucks

The wide variety of trucks on our roads might surprise you. Here are just a few:

  • Box trucks – Box trucks, commonly seen making deliveries or transporting cargo, have a rigid, enclosed structure. Their design ensures the protection of goods during transit, but their size and weight can contribute to specific challenges on the road.
  • Tow trucks – You might have called a tow truck after a vehicle breakdown or accident. While they provide essential services, they pose unique safety considerations – primarily when engaged in towing operations.
  • Dump trucks – Recognizable by their large, open beds for hauling loose materials, dump trucks play a crucial role in construction and waste management. However, the nature of their loose cargo poses inherent risks, particularly during loading and unloading.
  • Garbage trucks – Collecting and transporting refuse can pose safety risks. Frequent stops, unpredictable traffic conditions, and the need for precise maneuvers create potential hazards for both drivers and pedestrians.
  • Delivery trucks – Often associated with courier services and retail deliveries, these trucks navigate urban landscapes, making frequent stops. The demand for timely deliveries can sometimes compromise safety, leading to rushed maneuvers and increased accident risks.

Factors Contributing to Truck Accidents Involving Non-Semi Trucks

There are many reasons why truck accidents caused by large trucks occur. For example, many large trucks have obstructed views due to their design or cargo configurations. Limited visibility can lead to blind spots, making it challenging for drivers to be aware of surrounding traffic, pedestrians, or cyclists.

The type of cargo these vehicles carry also presents risks. Unsecured loads, hazardous materials, or irregularly shaped items can lead to cargo spills, posing dangers to other motorists and creating road hazards.

Like all commercial vehicle drivers, drivers of large trucks must follow federal hours of service regulations. The government designed these rules to limit the number of consecutive hours drivers can spend behind the wheel. When drivers ignore these rules, they typically cause accidents due to fatigue. 

Also, trucking companies often hire drivers without the experience to handle their specific vehicle type. These factors can contribute to slower reaction times, lapses in attention, and an increased likelihood of accidents.

Common Types of Non-Semi Truck Accidents

In 2022, commercial trucks were involved in more than 9,000 wrecks on Florida roads. There are many different forms that a wreck could take, but these are some of the most common causes of trucking accidents.

Rollovers

Rollover accidents can occur due to a high center of gravity, sharp turns, or uneven loading. Large trucks, especially those with an elevated cargo area, may be more susceptible to rollovers. 

Jackknifes

Jackknifing happens when the cab and trailer of a truck fold into an angle. This can occur during sudden braking or maneuvering, leading to a loss of control. Tow trucks and larger delivery trucks are particularly prone to jackknifing.

Rear-End Collisions

Large trucks may be involved in rear-end collisions, especially in stop-and-go traffic. Limited visibility and the challenges of abrupt stops and starts can contribute to these accidents.

Wide Turn Accidents

Delivery and garbage trucks often require more significant turning radiuses. Wide and swinging turns can catch other drivers unaware, leading to collisions at intersections. Unsuspecting motorists can suffer terrible injuries as a result. 

When someone suffers an injury in an accident with a large truck, they often face significant financial expenses, such as medical bills and lost wages. They deserve justice, and a skilled personal injury attorney can help them in the following ways:

Determining Liability

Determining liability in large truck accidents involves assessing driver negligence, vehicle maintenance, and compliance with traffic laws. Understanding the specific circumstances of the accident is crucial for establishing liability. A skilled truck accident lawyer knows how to collect critical evidence and assess blame.

Seeking Compensation

Victims of large truck accidents may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Seeking compensation involves navigating complex legal processes, requiring the expertise of an experienced attorney.

Dealing With Insurance Companies

Insurance policies covering large trucks can be $1 million or more. When an accident occurs, insurers will fight passionately to protect their profits by denying victims the compensation they deserve. An attorney can fight just as passionately to protect your rights.

Trucking Company Responsibilities

There are several steps trucking companies can take to reduce truck accidents caused by large trucks

. These include:

  • Driver training and education – Comprehensive training programs for large truck drivers emphasize the skills and awareness required to operate these vehicles safely. Ongoing education contributes to improved safety on the roads.
  • Regular vehicle maintenance – Establishing and adhering to strict maintenance schedules is crucial for preventing mechanical failures that could lead to accidents. Routine checks of brakes, tires, and other critical components are essential.
  • Improved visibility technologies – The integration of advanced visibility technologies, such as cameras and sensors, enhances the awareness of large truck drivers. These technologies help mitigate blind spots and reduce the risk of collisions.

Trucking companies are responsible for doing all they can to make their trucks as safe as possible. Unfortunately, too many of them ignore safety in the pursuit of profits. When they do, accident victims have grounds to take legal action.

Speak With a Skilled Jones Law Group Attorney

The lawyers with the Jones Law Group have extensive experience representing clients in truck accidents. We’ll use all our skills to help you get the money you have coming. If you would like to schedule a free consultation, please use our online form or call (727) 571-1333.

Related Truck Accident Insights

Happy Four Family members

Road Trip Safety Tips from Jones Law Group

While Florida is a perfect place to take a long road trip, it can also be dangerous. Our highways are oftentimes the scenes of horrific accidents that can result in devastating injuries. The last thing you’ll want to have to deal with is a wreck that can ruin your great time. That’s why we’re providing […]

Jogging

Jogging with Earbuds

Jogging has remained enormously popular since the 1970s. It continues to attract thousands of enthusiasts each year and the St. Petersburg / Clearwater / Tampa area has an ideal climate for jogging, year round. In addition to climate considerations, there are numerous parks and the nearly 40 mile Pinellas County Trail available for joggers to […]

Damaged In A Car Accident Motorbike

5 Ways a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Can Help You

Tens of thousands of motorcycle accidents take place in the U.S. every year. When riders are severely hurt, they often panic because their medical bills just keep piling up. Since they can’t work, they have no idea how they’ll make it financially. This is why one of the most important things anyone can do after […]

Children injury in car accident

What is Florida’s Car Seat Law?

Does My Child Need to be in a Car Seat or a Booster Seat? Florida recently passed a more stringent child restraint law. As of January 1, 2015, all children under the age of 6 must ride in a federally approved car seat or booster seat.[1] It is a one size fits all law and, […]

female driver engages in an example of risk while driving by honking her horn and tailgating

What’s an Example of Risk While Driving?

Texting while driving is just one example of a negligent behavior that puts others at risk of sustaining serious injuries in a car accident. Summary Thousands of traffic accidents occur on American roads every year due to various factors. Road users encounter many risks while driving, and often, these contribute significantly to accidents. Fortunately, most […]

Advice After an Accident

The Importance of Following Medical Advice After an Accident

So you have been involved in an accident. You have been to the hospital and referred to a specialist. You have had your MRIs and CT Scans. You have been referred to a physical therapist or a chiropractor who tells you that you need to treat on a regular basis. You start to feel a […]

Do you have a personal injury case in Tampa Bay, Florida?

Speak with us before time runs out! In Florida, you have a limited window to file a personal injury case, so speak to an Attorney today.

Call our personal injury law office directly at (727) 512-9847

Jones Law Group logo, Personal Injury Lawyer in St Petersburg Florida

Jones Law Group is a dedicated personal injury lawyer in St. Petersburg, FL, serving the Tampa Bay area since 2006. Our experienced attorneys specialize in car accidents, slip and fall cases, employment law disputes, construction law issues, and overtime wage claims, fighting for maximum compensation on a contingency fee basis. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your case.

5622 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg, FL 33707

Call our personal injury law office at (727) 512-9847

© Copyright 2006–2025 Jones Law Group Attorneys at Law. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy Terms of Use 

Website by Hip Bip

Attorney Advertising.
The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. Past results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

5 things to do after a florida accident by JLG Law in St Petersburg

Don't miss this checklist of what you need to do after your accident.

See the things you NEED TO DO after your accident. Get the 5 to-do's sent directly to your email.

GET A 100% Free Consultation today
TELL US ABOUT YOUR SITUATION
or Call us directly at (727) 571-1333
1
Step
2
Step
3
Step
4
Step
5
Step
6
Step
Have you suffered from any of the following?*
What type of accident was it?*
How long ago did it happen?
tell us about your personal injury for a
100% Free Consultation today
or Call us directly at (727) 571-1333
1
Step
2
Step
3
Step
4
Step
5
Step
6
Step
Have you suffered from any of the following?*
What type of accident was it?*
How long ago did it happen?