An accident involving two large semi-trucks reportedly crushing a compact car that was between them resulted in the death of a 24-year-old woman on Interstate 95 in St. Augustine, Florida.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the April 14 accident occurred when there was a slowdown in traffic on the interstate highway. One of the semi-trucks, which was traveling behind the woman’s compact car, failed to slow down and rear-ended the smaller vehicle. The car then smashed into the rear of the other truck’s trailer. It remains unclear why the first truck driver did not slow down in time to avoid the crash.
Factors involved in trucking accidents
Due to their size and weight, it takes a much longer amount of time for a semi-truck to stop than the average passenger vehicle. Most cars weigh about 5,000 pounds, while semi-trucks and their trailers often top out at 80,000 pounds. Traveling at 40 miles per hour, trucks need at least 170 feet to stop, compared to just 124 feet for smaller vehicles. When traveling at highway speeds, which are often 65 miles per hour or more, truck drivers need even more time and distance to come to a stop.
This is why it’s so important for truck drivers to be attentive and avoid getting behind the wheel if they are too fatigued to operate their rigs safely. They also must refrain from taking any drugs or consuming alcohol before driving, as these substances can slow their reaction time and make it more difficult to avoid potential accidents.
Truck accidents can be incredibly dangerous and often result in serious or fatal injuries. For further guidance on your legal options after a crash involving a commercial vehicle, meet with a dedicated Bradenton personal injury lawyer at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh.