Commercial truck drivers must take extra precautions to avoid hurting others when driving such large and dangerous vehicles. However, motorists like you are hurt every day on Florida roads and highways by careless truck drivers and other at-fault parties who acted negligently. The number of truck accidents in Florida goes up every year, meaning more victims must seek justice from those who drive and companies that own commercial trucks.
Below, a West Palm Beach truck accident lawyer from Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath discusses how often truck drivers get into accidents in West Palm Beach.
How many truck accidents happen in Florida?
With so much cargo transport happening to and from Florida ports, the accidents statistics for tractor-trailer incidents are sobering. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, there were 47,197 crashes involving commercial motor vehicles in Florida in 2023. In Palm Beach County, there were 3,204 truck accidents, resulting in 16 fatalities and 773 injuries.
For 2024, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reported 10,531 big-rig collisions, with 324 killed and 5,512 injured in a trucking accident. For 2025 (as of April), the FMCSA has already recorded 1,291 truck accidents across Florida.
What are common causes of West Palm Beach truck accidents?
Truck drivers are subject to many of the factors that affect passenger car motorists, except that they are in charge of much more dangerous vehicles. Many truck accident claims result when the 18-wheeler’s driver acted negligently. Here are some common causes of truck accidents in Florida:
- Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit in a vehicle that averages 80 feet long and weighs 80,000 pounds means there’s less room to stop in time.
- Reckless driving: Truck drivers who mishandle their vehicles while angry or in a hurry can seriously injure multiple other motorists, as well as pedestrians.
- Distracted driving: Paying too much attention to a cell phone, GPS, or in-cab entertainment system could take a truck driver’s eyes off the road, leading to a devastating crash.
- Drowsy driving: Long-haul routes from Miami to other states can take a toll on a truck driver’s ability to stay awake. When they violate the FMCSA’s hours-of-service regulations, they can be liable for causing personal injury and property damage to their victims.
No matter what causes your truck accident, you should consult with a qualified and competent personal injury attorney to understand who is at fault and what you should do. If the truck accident results in the death of a loved one, you could be eligible to file legal action against the driver, the trucking company, and any others who contributed to the crash.
How long do I have to sue someone after a WPB truck accident?
If you’re filing an insurance claim, you may have as little as ten days to notify the insurance provider representing the truck driver or their trucking company. If you initiate a personal injury lawsuit, Florida law allows you to file paperwork just two years from the date you were hurt. If you wait too long, you could lose valuable time to build your case and seek compensation through the courts.
Who can help me with my truck accident case in West Palm Beach?
The truck accident lawyers at Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath are ready to listen to the details of your case during a free initial consultation. We’ll advise you on your legal options, negotiate with the insurance company, and prepare your case for trial, if necessary. We understand the pain and worry you’re feeling, and we will be at your side against big trucking companies to secure the justice you deserve.
Get started by contacting us online or by calling (561) 655-1990 today.
