Commercial Vehicle Accidents What You Need to Know Commercial vehicle accidents in Jacksonville are on the rise. With so many trucks, buses, and other commercial vehicles on the road, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to stay safe. This article will provide an overview of the common causes of commercial vehicle accidents in Jacksonville, steps to take if you’re involved in an accident, and resources available to help. Commercial Vehicle Accidents in Jacksonville are on the Rise The number of commercial vehicle accidents in Jacksonville is on the rise. In 2019, there were over 5,000 accidents involving commercial vehicles in Jacksonville, an increase of over 10% from the previous year. This increase is likely due to the growing number of trucks, buses, and other commercial vehicles on the roads in Jacksonville.The most common cause of commercial vehicle accidents in Jacksonville is driver fatigue. Poorly maintained vehicles, distracted driving, and reckless driving are also common causes. All of these factors can lead to dangerous situations for both drivers and pedestrians. Common Causes of Commercial Vehicle Accidents in Jacksonville The most common cause of commercial vehicle accidents in Jacksonville is driver fatigue. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, driver fatigue is responsible for approximately 20% of all commercial vehicle accidents in the U.S. Driver fatigue can be caused by long hours of driving, lack of sleep, or inadequate rest breaks.Poorly maintained vehicles are also a common cause of commercial vehicle accidents in Jacksonville. Commercial vehicles are subject to rigorous safety inspections, but some drivers and companies may neglect to properly maintain their vehicles. This can lead to mechanical issues that can cause accidents.Distracted driving is another common cause of commercial vehicle accidents in Jacksonville. Drivers may be distracted by their cell phones, conversations with passengers, or other activities while driving. This can lead to dangerous situations on the road.Finally, reckless driving is a common cause of commercial vehicle accidents in Jacksonville. Commercial drivers may be tempted to speed or drive recklessly in order to make up for lost time or to reach their destination faster. This can lead to dangerous situations for both drivers and pedestrians. Steps to Take if You’re Involved in a Commercial Vehicle Accident in Jacksonville If you’re involved in a commercial vehicle accident in Jacksonville, there are a few steps you should take. First, call 911 to report the accident. This will ensure that medical help is sent to the scene and that the police can investigate the accident.Second, take pictures of the accident scene. This will help document the accident and can be used as evidence in the event of a lawsuit.Third, exchange contact information with the other drivers involved in the accident. This will ensure that you have the contact information of the other drivers in case you need to follow up with them.Fourth, contact your insurance company to report the accident and begin the claims process.Finally, contact a qualified attorney to discuss your legal options. An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Resources Available to Help with Commercial Vehicle Accidents in Jacksonville If you’re involved in a commercial vehicle accident in Jacksonville, there are a number of resources available to help. The Jacksonville Police Department offers a free accident report service that can help you document the accident. The Florida Department of Transportation also offers a number of resources to help you understand your rights and responsibilities after an accident.In addition, there are a number of qualified attorneys in Jacksonville who specialize in commercial vehicle accidents. These attorneys can provide legal advice and help you understand your rights and options. Trucking accidents, which fall under the personal injury umbrella, can be incredibly complex to litigate. It is often difficult to determine liability and who is to blame. Is it the trucking company itself, the company that performs maintenance on the vehicle, the driver or the truck manufacturer? There is often a considerable amount of detail to sort through. That’s why you need an experienced trucking accident attorney who knows the letter of the law and can determine whether you deserve damages and how much. Call us at 904-353-9000 . At Soud Law we never charge our clients a dime ahead of time, and we only bill you if we win your case.