Kissimmee Triple Tractor-Trailer Crash

When the driver of a tractor-trailer hauling a double trailer failed to respond to slowing traffic ahead, the result was disaster. That driver smashed into a Volvo tractor-trailer, which in turn crashed into the Freightliner tractor-trailer ahead of it. The driver that caused the initial collision was killed and his vehicle burst into flames, while the driver in the middle tractor-trailer was hospitalized with severe injuries. Only the driver in the third vehicle remained unharmed. It was a critical reminder of the importance of paying attention to the road when driving.

Driver Distractions

There are endless distractions possible on the road. Something as simple as changing a radio station can take a driver’s eyes off the road for a second or two, which is more than enough time for an accident to occur. And, like the situation with the tractor-trailers, oftentimes it is innocent drivers or passengers who wind up paying the price with life-altering injuries, or even death. What are the most common distractions?

• Phone use, including calling, texting, or using apps.;
• Mental distractions causing one to fixate on a problem and tune out of driving;
• Activities that occur in the vehicle, including eating, grooming, interacting with others, or adjusting various dials;
• External factors due to rubbernecking at the sight of a collision, searching for an address, scenery, and so forth.

Stopping Time

Many people don’t realize just how far a typical vehicle travels once pressure is applied to the brakes. Consider the following chart:

Astonishingly, when traveling at freeway speeds one could travel nearly five football fields in the time it takes to perceive a problem and press on the brake in order to come to a complete stop. In an emergency, perception-reaction time is important. Normally, it takes about 1 ½ seconds to react once a problem is perceived. If problem awareness is delayed due to distractions, the chances for a collision rise.

Victims of Distracted Drivers

All too often, the victims of distracted drivers are innocents who happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. They are left dealing with tremendous loss and heartache, all because someone was negligent and failed to pay attention to the road.

We Can Help

Have you been injured or lost a loved one due to a negligent distracted driver? The experienced Kissimmee and Orlando personal injury attorneys at Salazar & Kelly Law Group can help to collect money to address your medical bills, lost wages, and much more. To discuss your situation, schedule a confidential consultation today.

Source:

fox35orlando.com/news/deadly-crash-floridas-turnpike-osceola-county