There are several major cities in Florida along Interstate 75, such as Lake City, Gainesville, Ocala, Tampa, Fort Myers, Naples, Sarasota, and Miami, where it passes. As a major route for people and goods to travel into Florida, it is also highly likely to have serious accidents. In addition to connecting northern Michigan to the Hialeah-Miami border, Interstate 75 is an iconic road that runs for 471 miles through Florida, with a daily traffic count of over 38,000 vehicles.
Every nine days, a significant accident shuts down part of I-75. A commercial semi-truck is usually involved in these accidents. Imagine that you have been injured in one of these accidents. As a result, you may have medical bills, lost income, and other expenses to cover. I-75 truck accident lawyers can assist you in recovering these and other damages from negligent truck drivers and other parties who contributed to your accident.
In An Accident On Florida’s Interstate 75, Here Are Some Things You Should Do
Your initial steps after being involved in an I-75 accident can significantly impact your case’s outcome.
You Should Always Keep Your Safety In Mind
I think it would be of great benefit to you if you moved yourself and any passengers to a safe location as soon as possible. Step away from the car and make sure all people are out of the way of other vehicles.
You Should Contact The Police
It is also imperative to keep in mind that under Florida Statute 316.062, if there has been an injury or significant property damage, the police should be called immediately. This will allow them to investigate the accident and file a report.
Obtain Information
If you are safe and you have contacted the police, you should gather as much information about the accident as possible. Photograph the accident scene and any vehicles involved, as well as any road conditions or signs that may have contributed to the crash.
Don’t forget to take down all the names and contact information of everyone involved in the accident, so you can contact them if needed. This includes the registration number, insurance details, and other drivers’ standings and contact information.
Be Aware Of Your Own And Others’ Injuries
The next step is to assess yourself and others for injuries. You may need medical assistance. Even minor injuries should be treated immediately.
Make Sure You Consult A Doctor
Medical attention should always be sought after an accident for several reasons. First, adrenaline may mask serious injuries, which a doctor will determine and advise you on how to proceed. Secondly, your health record is crucial evidence in your case. The sooner you seek medical attention, the better since your injuries will be evident after the accident.
Consult A Lawyer
Ideally, you should speak to an accident lawyer at a reputable law firm before making a statement to any insurance company about the incident.
Florida I-75 Road Traffic Accident Causes
When a commercial truck is loaded, it weighs up to 80,000 pounds. This makes it a dangerous weapon for a reckless or careless truck driver. Truck accidents are quite different from those involving smaller passenger vehicles. Even when the driver has done nothing wrong, a truck defect–or I-75 itself–can lead to a devastating accident.
Here are some of the more common truck accident scenarios we deal with:
- Sometimes, it is not the truck that poses a risk but the cargo that does. For example, suppose a load falls off a flatbed or trailer on a commercial truck. In that case, it can become a projectile that can hit other vehicles or create debris on I-75, causing a multi-car accident.
- Significant Rig Jackknife Accidents, When the coupling between the tractor and trailer fails, or the rig is thrown off balance, the trailer can swing out across I-75, creating an instant hazard for other vehicles.
- Underride accidents occur when a large truck suddenly stops or changes lanes on I-75. A smaller vehicle may become trapped underneath the car.
- Improper loading or a driver’s sudden movements in poor conditions could cause a truck to roll over while traveling down I-75.
In addition, distracted and impaired driving are frequently responsible for trucking accidents. While driving along Interstate 75 for many hours, a driver’s attention may wander or be under the influence of drugs to “stay alert” while hurrying to meet a delivery deadline. Such behaviors can easily result in one of the accident scenarios described above.
Get In Touch With A Law Firm
With hiring a reputable law firm, you know that your needs are a priority so that you can focus on your recovery.
