13 States Begin Crackdown On Unsafe CMV Drivers

Each year, a coalition of states from across the southeast part of the United States (Florida included) participates in an initiative known as Operation Safe DRIVE, aimed at cracking down on unsafe commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. The initiative is aimed toward education of the public and a notification to truck drivers who bend the rules. If you are ever involved in an accident with a CMV, it is crucial that you understand your rights.

The Campaign 

Florida, among the other participating states, sees a high number of accidents involving CMVs, simply because of the level of overland shipping that happens in the state. Roughly 38,000 non-injury crashes in 2021 involved a CMV, plus almost 2,000 injury and fatality-related accidents. It is in the state’s best interest – both its law enforcement and its citizens – to try and minimize the likelihood of accidents like this in the future.

During the enforcement campaign, law enforcement will engage in measures like opening more scale facilities for large trucks, checking “black boxes” and logs, which truckers are required by federal law to maintain. For passenger carriers like buses, law enforcement is more likely to focus on unsafe driving behaviors, such as speeding or using illegal substances while behind the wheel.

If You Are Injured

Whether during this enforcement campaign, or during an ordinary drive, an accident involving a CMV can result in serious injuries to a driver or passenger in a car or small truck. CMVs are generally large vehicles, and if they are full of cargo or passengers, the odds are increased that the weight involved will be significant. Holding the driver liable for your injuries may be difficult, but is usually not impossible.

If you are involved in a crash with a CMV, keep in mind that Florida law requires an accident report in every collision involving a commercial motor vehicle. Failure to involve law enforcement can actually result in criminal charges for those involved, particularly if injury or death has occurred. Because CMVs cause accidents with regularity, and because the costs to the victim can be high, Florida law requires that a report always be filed.

Call A Tampa CMV Accident Attorney

While the outcome of Operation Safe DRIVE remains to be seen, it is important to look out for dangerous drivers regardless. A Tampa truck accident attorney from the Rinaldo Law Group can help answer your questions and manage your concerns. Contact our office today at (813) 831-9999 for a free consultation.

Source:

flhsmv.gov/pdf/crashreports/crash_facts_2021.pdf