Man Killed in Crash With Timber Truck in Florida
According to a report from CBS News, a truck driver was killed in a collision with a timber truck in Florida. The fatal crash happened just north of Lakeland, in Polk County. A log reportedly came loose from the timber truck and pierced the other vehicle’s cab. The crash is still under a more comprehensive investigation by law enforcement. Here, our Miami truck accident attorney discusses the case in more detail.
Catastrophic Wreck With a Timber Truck is Deadly in Central Florida
As confirmed in reporting by CBS News, a fatal truck accident in Central Florida was caused by a catastrophic load intrusion. According to a report from law enforcement, a 44-year-old semi-truck driver from Winter Park, FL was tragically killed after his cab was penetrated by timber extending from the rear of a truck ahead of him. The crash occurred late in the morning at the intersection of U.S. 98 North and State Road 471. Investigators believe the victim failed to recognize that the lead truck had slowed to make a turn and the result was a rear-end collision. The truck driver of the lead truck was not hurt in the crash. The incident is still under investigation by law enforcement, but no charges were filed and none are expected.
An Overview of Cargo Securement Requirements in Florida
Trucking companies have a duty to ensure that all cargo is properly secured. Similar to many other states, Florida has adopted the federal cargo securement standards for commercial motor vehicles. The key rules are found in 49 CFR Part 393 Subpart I. A trucking company must ensure that cargo is contained, immobilized, or secured to prevent shifting or falling during transit. The driver bears a continuous duty to inspect the load. Along with other things, federal law requires a pre-trip inspection, a check within the first 50 miles, and periodic inspections thereafter. Specific tie-down requirements apply based on cargo type, weight, and length. Logs, pipes, and timber loads are subject to enhanced rules under 49 CFR Section 393.116.
Seriously Injured Truck Accident Victims Need Full and Fair Compensation
Hurt in a commercial truck accident in Florida? If you suffered a serious injury, you have a right to bring a fault-based claim to seek compensation for the full extent of your injuries, including for any non-economic losses. Along with other damages, you may be entitled to recover compensation for:
- Vehicle repairs;
- Emergency room care;
- Hospital bills;
- Other medical costs;
- Physical therapy;
- Loss of wages;
- Diminished earnings;
- Pain and suffering;
- Long-term disability; and
- Wrongful death.
Call Our Miami Truck Accident Lawyer Today
At Pike & Lustig, LLP, our Miami semi-truck accident attorney fights tirelessly for justice for injured victims. If you or your loved one was hurt in a bad wreck, we are here as a personal injury resource. Contact us today for a free case review. With a law office in Miami and a law office in West Palm Beach, we represent trucking accident victims throughout Southeast Florida.
Source:
cbsnews.com/miami/news/florida-man-killed-wood-pierces-truck-collision/
