Trucks Containing Hazardous Materials

Vehicles that transport hazardous materials are subject to even stricter regulations than ordinary trucks, due to the dangerous nature of their cargo. Being involved in any type of collision with a big rig can lead to a long process of recovery, and these injuries may be even more severe when a victim comes into contact with hazardous freight. Those responsible for harm sustained due to a carelessly operated truck containing hazardous materials should be held liable. The Miami truck accidents at the Law Offices of Robert Dixon are dedicated to advocating for victims of these collisions.

Governmental agencies have put regulations in place to ensure that trucks containing hazardous materials travel in the safest, most efficient way. Many different materials are deemed hazardous and thus are subject to stricter regulations regarding their transport, including:

• Combustible or flammable liquids or solids;
• Gases;
• Poisons;
• Radioactive or corrosive materials; or
• Explosives.

Trucks engaging in the transport of materials that are deemed to be particularly dangerous must display placards specifying the types and kinds of materials that pose a threat on the road. In Florida, truck drivers must also obtain commercial driver’s licenses, as well as engage in proper training and testing practices, before they may be allowed to transport any hazardous materials. The materials must also be packaged, marked, loaded, and transported properly to reduce the risk of causing serious harm.

If you have been involved in an accident caused by a truck containing hazardous materials, multiple parties may be held liable, depending on the circumstances. The shipper, carrier, and driver all have different duties to ensure hazardous materials are transported safely. A failure to perform these duties with reasonable care can potentially lead to liability for any of these parties. A shipper’s duty includes making sure that products are packaged suitably, as well as marked and labeled appropriately, before they leave their place of origin. In addition, carriers and drivers are responsible for ensuring any hazardous materials travel and are delivered in a safe manner. If any of these parties breaches their duty and causes an injury to someone else as a result, the victim may be able to hold them liable by bringing a negligence claim for damages.

Forms of compensation that may be recoverable after these accidents include past and future medical expenses, loss of income and earning capacity, repairs to a vehicle, and pain and suffering. In the devastating event that an accident involving a truck containing hazardous material leads to a tragic death, certain relatives of the victim may file a wrongful death action to receive compensation for funeral or burial costs and other related damages.

Regulations on the transportation of hazardous materials are detailed and strict so that the public safety is protected. If you or someone you love has been hurt due to someone else’s careless actions in handling this freight, the Miami motor vehicle collision attorneys at the Law Offices of Robert Dixon can offer seasoned and compassionate assistance for your legal claim. We also represent individuals in Miami, West Palm Beach, and other cities throughout Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade Counties. Call 877.499.4878 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.