The Florida Highway Patrol has kicked off a new enforcement campaign against aggressive car and truck drivers.
From February 4 through February 8, troopers across the state will keep an eye out for motorists who are speeding, following a vehicle too closely, or attempting unsafe passing maneuvers. Major targets of the “Ticketing Aggressive Cars and Trucks” initiative are semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, and other large commercial vehicles.
Due to tremendous size and weight differences, automobiles are at a serious disadvantage when involved in a crash with a large truck.
Statistics, however, show that both car and truck drivers make mistakes. In fatal crashes involving large trucks in the state of Florida, the crash is attributable to driver error by both car and truck drivers 88 percent of the time. Only 12 percent of automobile fatalities in Florida are caused by vehicle defects, road conditions or inclement weather.
According to the state’s press release, the Florida Highway Patrol announced its campaign, known as “Ticketing Aggressive Cars and Trucks,” which will take place from February 4 to 8. Troopers will be extra vigilant for aggressive car and truck drivers during this period.
Col. David Brierton, the Florida Highway Patrol’s director, shared that his team is committed to keeping the roadways safe for all motorists, and that they are partnering with the Florida Trucking Association on this particular safety campaign. If all motorists share the roadways and avoid aggressive driving behaviors—particularly around large trucks—then the total number of crashes can be reduced.
FHP and FTA are conducting activities at schools and community centers in the area to educate drivers on how to share the road safely with trucks.
You can protect yourself and your passengers by learning how to share the road safely with large trucks.
Here are 8 safety tips to keep in mind:
- Do not cut off trucks. The stopping distance is very different for a large truck than a passenger car. When you pass a large truck allow one car length for every 10 mph of speed.
- Maintain a safe distance. It is never safe to tailgate any vehicle. But following a large truck too close is particularly dangerous. Their size makes it hard to see the road ahead.
- Stay away from the truck’s blind spots. These are also called No Zones.
- Return to your lane safely. After passing a truck, carefully move back into your lane only when you can see both of the truck’s headlights in your rearview mirror.
- Pay attention: Eliminate distractions and concentrate on driving.
- Be cautious of wide right turns: Truck drivers sometimes need to swing wide to the left in order to safely make a right turn.
- Wear your safety belt: They may just save your life.
- Seek legal representation. After being involved in a wreck, contact an experienced Florida Auto Accident Lawyer to discuss your legal rights and options.
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