Are Large Trucks Allowed to Use the Fast Lane in Tampa?

If a large commercial truck hits a smaller vehicle, chances are that injuries will result. Commercial trucks and semi-trailers are huge vehicles that can cause catastrophic damage to other vehicles when they are involved in collisions. There are many states in the nation where commercial trucking is quite prevalent. Florida is one of those states with a significant truck industry presence, meaning that drivers on the roads in Florida are often going to be driving next to large trucks.

When it comes to traffic safety laws in the Sunshine State, there are limitations on where commercial trucks can and cannot drive in the left lane, and for good reason too. There are certain dangers that can come with trucks driving in the “fast lane” that have the potential to put all other vehicles on the road at risk for an accident.

If you were the victim of a truck accident in Florida, you may have sustained severe physical bodily harm or in the most tragic instances, lost a loved one. It is critical that in the aftermath of one of these incidents, you obtain the most compensation you can. For accidents involving trucks, culpability could be found in several places. The truck driver, the trucking company, or even the company that loaded the cargo could be liable for your damages. The Tampa truck accident attorneys at Fulgencio Law know how to assess these complicated accident events and determine where liability falls so you can obtain full monetary compensation for your losses.

Which Highways in Tampa are Large Trucks Unable to Use the Left Lane?

There are certain rules of the road in Florida that drivers must abide by when they are operating their vehicles. This includes how to use the left-hand lane while driving. When a driver does not operate their vehicles properly in the left lane, they can cause problems with traffic and increase the risk of car accidents. 

Because trucks are so bulky and large when they ride in the left-hand lane, they can cause blind spot issues. And, if they are unable to drive at the appropriate pace for this lane, they can also cause traffic to back up, making it much more difficult for everyone to navigate the road.

While large trucks can operate in all lanes on most roads throughout Florida, there are some stretches that put restrictions on left-lane driving for trucks. For example, in Tampa, portions of I-75 and I-4 make it unlawful for trucks to operate in the left lane.

Trucks are expected to abide by Florida truck lane restrictions. Should they violate such rules, there will be penalties including fines and points added to their commercial driver’s license. Frequent violations of the driving rules can lead to a CDL license suspension or revocation.

Speak with a Florida Truck Accident Attorney

Even though Florida follows a no-fault insurance system, after a crash, you still may be able to file a claim against the liable parties for your damages. To have your accident evaluated by a trained and seasoned Florida truck accident attorney during a free consultation, call Fulgencio Law at (813) 463-0123 today.